German Ministers Use AI for Speech Research Amid Transparency Dispute

In Germany, several federal officials have confirmed that artificial‑intelligence tools are employed primarily for research and assistance when preparing speeches, but not for drafting the final text. The chancellor’s office says Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his staff use AI only to gather information. Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Labour Minister Bärbel Bas gave similar assurances, noting internal guidelines that limit AI to supporting roles.

A separate controversy involves Economy Minister Katherina Reiche, whose ministry declined to clarify whether AI was used to write two guest articles published in April. Analytical tools flagged portions of the pieces as likely AI‑generated, though the evidence is not conclusive. The ministry responded that AI is a routine tool in politics and emphasized the need to balance artificial and human intelligence. Earlier admissions by Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger and Thuringia’s Minister‑President Mario Voigt about using AI for speeches have fueled the current debate over transparency and possible labeling requirements.