The newest news agency in Venezuela has introduced AI anchors to deliver news amidst growing government censorship.
This initiative is called “Operation Retweet.” It aims to protect journalists while making sure independent information keeps flowing.
This effort comes after the tense situation following the recent election on July 28.
The organization behind this is Connectas, which is based in Colombia.
They have created two AI characters: “El Pana” (The Friend) and “La Chama” (The Girl).
These digital presenters share news collected from around 100 journalists working with 20 different Venezuelan news and fact-checking organizations.
Carlos Huertas, the director of Connectas, stated that using AI anchors is a response to the increased dangers faced by journalists in Venezuela.
We decided to use artificial intelligence to be the ‘face’ of the information we’re publishing because our colleagues who are still out doing their jobs are facing much more risk.
Media freedom in Venezuela has become more limited since mid-June.
At least ten journalists have been arrested, with eight still in prison on serious charges, reported by Reporters Without Borders.
Many believe these arrests are part of a larger effort by the government to silence criticism.
A new news agency in Venezuela has launched an innovative project using AI anchors to provide news coverage in light of increasing government censorship. This initiative is known as “Operation Retweet,” designed to safeguard journalists and maintain the flow of independent news.
This initiative arises in the wake of heightened tensions following the disputed elections held on July 28. The organization spearheading this effort is Connectas, a Colombian group committed to supporting press freedom.
Connectas has developed two digital characters, named “El Pana” (The Friend) and “La Chama” (The Girl). These AI figures deliver news accumulated from approximately 100 journalists associated with various Venezuelan news organizations and fact-checking groups.
Carlos Huertas, the director of Connectas, emphasized that the decision to utilize AI presenters comes as a response to the escalating threats faced by journalists in the country.
“We chose to employ artificial intelligence as the face of our news to protect our colleagues who are bravely working in dangerous conditions.”
Since mid-June, the situation for media freedom in Venezuela has worsened. Reports indicate that at least ten journalists have been detained, with eight remaining incarcerated under serious allegations, as noted by international watchdog Reporters Without Borders.
Many observers view these detentions as part of a broader campaign by the Venezuelan government to suppress dissent and silence opposing viewpoints.
Operation Retweet has enabled the AI anchors to provide daily news reports that cover sensitive subjects, including government suppression and protest-related events. This initiative offers a unique solution during a time of crisis for the media in Venezuela.
The introduction of AI anchors demonstrates a strategic adaptation within journalism, using technology to ensure that crucial information remains accessible, even in challenging conditions. It underscores the commitment of Venezuelan journalists to continue their work, despite facing severe restrictions and dangers.
As the political landscape becomes more volatile, the role of AI in journalism may grow increasingly vital as a means of preserving press freedom and delivering accurate news to the public.
