Speaking at the 40th Media Innovation Network (MINDS) conference in Vienna, President Alexander Van der Bellen issued a caution regarding the escalating disinformation risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI). The head of state detailed how modern technology enables the creation of misleading content by anyone with basic computer access. He shared his personal experience, recounting an AI-generated video that falsely depicted him endorsing a cryptocurrency platform, emphasizing that he never made such an endorsement.
The President stressed that while current forgeries, such as the one involving a dialect discrepancy, can sometimes be identified, technological progress suggests that deepfakes will soon become virtually indistinguishable from reality. He highlighted the critical role of fact-checking agencies, describing them as essential, independent arbiters of verified information. Van der Bellen stated that a functional liberal democracy requires a shared understanding of facts versus mere opinion.
He warned that authoritarian regimes often target truth itself to control public discourse, citing historical examples of governments restricting speech and media flow. The President called for heightened media literacy and robust support for independent journalism as defenses against these threats. He concluded that while efforts to manipulate information are widespread, the truth ultimately prevails.
His address was a comprehensive warning about the societal risks posed by unchecked technological advancement and the necessity of upholding democratic values.
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