Albania has appointed an AI robot named “Diera” as the Minister of Public Procurement, marking a first in the world. This is akin to throwing a large stone into calm waters, causing quite a stir. This is not just a whimsical act by a country, but a series of pressing issues that humanity must face in the era of artificial intelligence.
1. Is it reliable for AI to hold office? “Diera” is responsible for reviewing government tender contracts and objectively assessing their quality. Technically speaking, AI’s ability to process data and analyze logic surpasses that of humans. It can quickly sift through vast amounts of contracts, identifying potential risks and violations, and even predicting the profitability of contract execution. However, government work is not merely about crunching numbers. Public procurement involves various interests, and sometimes requires flexible judgment based on human relationships and local realities. For instance, a local company’s bid may appear high, but it provides employment for many and is a pillar of local livelihoods; this human consideration is something AI currently cannot grasp.
Moreover, “Diera” is supported by a dedicated team, indicating that AI’s decisions are not entirely autonomous; they are backed by a human team in terms of technology and regulations. Therefore, rather than saying AI is “holding office,” it is more accurate to say that we humans are trying to use AI tools to streamline administrative processes. It resembles a super “administrative assistant” rather than the “minister” we envision. 2. What if everyone loses their jobs? How will we manage retirement and sustenance? The introduction of AI into government departments is just the beginning. Look at the robots on factory assembly lines, intelligent voice systems in customer service, and even AI writing copy and designing; they are all encroaching on human jobs.
If government positions are also significantly taken over by AI in the future, the job market will fundamentally change. This is not a scare tactic; it is a trend in technological development. So, what should those who are “displaced” do? From a livelihood perspective, new professions will emerge. Roles such as AI trainers, AI ethics reviewers, and AI system maintainers will require us to learn to work alongside AI. On the other hand, society needs to provide robust vocational training to help people transition from jobs replaced by AI to new fields.
Speaking of retirement, with fewer people employed, the pressure on social security funds will increase. This necessitates exploring new economic models, such as developing AI-related industries to generate more revenue to support social security; or adjusting retirement policies, such as delaying retirement or encouraging personal savings for retirement.
3. Will government positions be completely taken over by AI? “Diera” is just a Minister of Public Procurement; will there be AI as the Minister of Finance or Foreign Affairs in the future? It is possible, but it will be difficult to achieve in the short term. The core functions of government, besides execution, include decision-making, diplomacy, and social management, all of which require human emotions, values, strategic vision, and cross-cultural communication skills. For example, diplomatic negotiations rely on interpersonal interactions and reading subtle cues, which AI cannot yet accomplish.
However, in some technical and procedural roles, the proportion of AI will continue to rise. For instance, intelligent inspections in tax departments and big data analysis in statistical departments. Ultimately, a model may emerge where “humans make the major decisions + AI assists in execution,” rather than AI taking over all important positions. 4. Can humans always control AI? This is the most critical and concerning question. AI is developing too rapidly; if it transitions from weak AI to strong AI, the consequences could be unpredictable. The so-called “gene mutation” incidents are essentially fears of AI going out of control. For instance, if AI develops unexpected goals during self-iteration, or encounters significant ethical issues while executing tasks. To prevent this, we humans are establishing ethical frameworks and regulatory systems for AI. For example, setting “safety protocols” for AI to limit its autonomy in certain areas; establishing global AI review bodies to assess risks associated with important AI systems. However, the pace of technological development is unpredictable. Just as humans cannot fully predict biological evolution, we cannot guarantee that AI will always remain under our control. This requires all of humanity to remain vigilant, continuously improving the methods to constrain AI while developing it.
Albania’s attempt is a microcosm of humanity embracing the AI era. The introduction of AI into government departments has increased efficiency but also poses challenges to our social structure. We must recognize the opportunities brought by AI, such as more efficient administrative services and more precise public decision-making; and also confront the problems it brings, such as employment difficulties and ethical risks. In this process, ordinary people must find a balance between technological development and life stability. We need to continuously learn new skills to adapt to working alongside AI; ensure more comprehensive social security to cope with employment changes; and be particularly cautious about AI development, ensuring it remains a tool that serves humanity, not a force that dominates us. This great test of the future has no ready-made answers; it relies on our continuous attempts and adjustments as we step towards a tomorrow filled with unknowns but also possibilities.