Who is Victoria Shi world’s first AI diplomat?

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine disclosed on Wednesday the world's first spokesperson created using artificial intelligence (AI) technology: Victoria Shi. Inspired by Ukrainian singer and influencer Rosalie Name, Victoria Shi will be responsible for communicating and commenting on consular matters by reading texts initially written by humans.

"For the first time in history, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine presents a digital person who will officially give statements to the media," says the Ministry's X message announcing this unprecedented initiative.

The avatar named Victoria Shi will offer information on consular issues, as stated in the message accompanying a video introducing the new digital spokesperson for Ukrainian diplomacy. 

In the video, Victoria Shi clarifies that the voice you hear is generated by artificial intelligence, not a real person. She pledges to provide updates on the work of consuls in safeguarding the rights and interests of Ukrainian citizens abroad. 

The Ukrainian Ministry has shared the same video on Facebook and YouTube, with Victoria Shi speaking Ukrainian, the language preferred on these platforms in Ukraine.

Who is Victoria Shi world first AI diplomat?

Ukraine introduces Victoria Shi, the AI diplomat inspired by singer Rosalie Nombre. Shi's official statements are human-verified and include QR codes for authenticity. She works alongside, not in place of, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' spokesperson.

Shi, dressed professionally and programmed with lifelike gestures, will deliver official statements crafted by human diplomats. This allows human diplomats to save time and resources while ensuring the Ministry maintains consistent and clear communication.

Victoria Shi's name cleverly combines the Ukrainian word for victory with "shtuchniy intelekt," meaning artificial intelligence. Notably, Shi's appearance and voice are modelled after Rosalie Nombre, a Ukrainian singer known for advocating social issues.

What was Victoria Shi's presentation like?

"Dear members of the press and the general public, I welcome you. My name is Victoria Shi. I have been created by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine using Artificial Intelligence to provide you with high-quality information on relevant topics," said the brand-new spokesperson in front of the cameras. "I'm not a real person, just AI," she clarified.

Regarding her role under Dmitry Kuleba's leadership, Shi explained, "I'll inform the public about consular affairs and update the press on consulate activities safeguarding Ukrainian citizens worldwide."

Victoria Shi's appearance is inspired by Ukrainian singer Rosalie Nombre, confirmed the ministry's press service, clarifying that human-made statements, "written and verified by real people," will be used.

"AI assists only in generating the visual part," they added. Future statements will be available online and to the press, ensuring Victoria Shi doesn't replace the official spokesperson, focusing solely on consular matters.

Artificial Intelligence and underlying ethical debate

The rapid advancement of AI in recent years has sparked ethical debates across various domains, including journalism. The use of AI-generated content remains a highly debated topic in newsrooms worldwide.

In response, the Ukrainian ministry has implemented measures to prevent the falsification of its spokesperson's statements by creating a QR code to authenticate videos.

The appointment of an AI-generated official also aims to "save time and resources for the ministry," emphasized Ukrainian diplomacy head Dmitro Kuleba. "True diplomats can now be more efficient and focus on other tasks," he added.