German Digital Minister Accused of Using AI for Official Texts

Germany's Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger has come under scrutiny following allegations that he uses artificial intelligence (AI) to draft official texts. The controversy arises as Germany pushes to accelerate digitalization within the new ministry, established in 2025 to modernize public administration and coordinate digital policy.

A ministry spokesperson confirmed to media that Wildberger uses AI as a working tool, stating that the minister believes Germany must quickly learn to use AI productively but measuredly – both in the economy, public sector, and politics.

German newspaper Die Zeit reported that several speeches and opinion articles attributed to the minister were likely largely generated by AI. Journalists based their findings on analysis using software designed to detect AI-generated content, though some experts note such software is not entirely reliable. According to the report, articles published under Wildberger's name in leading German newspapers, as well as several parliamentary speeches, showed significant signs of AI use. His 2024 speech at the Atlantic Council foreign policy think tank in Washington is believed to have been fully AI-generated.

The ministry explained that it did not separately disclose the AI use because it views AI as a supporting tool similar to word processors or research support systems. The spokesperson said AI can be used as a "sparring partner" – to organize thoughts, find alternative phrasing, shorten texts, or improve structure. He emphasized that all content is reviewed and approved by humans before publication to avoid errors and so-called hallucinations.

The article also mentioned that the UK government is launching a pilot program to introduce AI in the Royal Courts of Justice, aimed at improving the justice system and reducing case delays, and that the UK Home Office will begin using AI to prevent adult asylum seekers from posing as children.