AI-Generated Video Depicts Vannacci Ordering Execution of Italian Political Opponents

What happened

An AI-generated video was created and shared depicting politician Roberto Vannacci dressed as a Roman emperor presiding over executions in an arena. The video shows Vannacci ordering the death of political opponents including Elly Schlein, Giuseppe Conte, Romano Prodi, and Laura Boldrini, who appear bound in the arena.

The video was shared on the Instagram profile of Vannacci's wife and retweeted by Vannacci himself. It depicts scenes including crowds cheering from amphitheater seating and includes appearances by Giorgia Meloni and Ignazio La Russa.

Reported impact

Giuseppe Conte stated the video constitutes incitement to violence and a message that 'risks inciting the most fanatical' supporters. Francesco Boccia called it 'aberrant and violent political communication' and 'incitement to hatred and violence.'

Laura Boldrini stated that 'evoking the killing of political opponents is today the hallmark' of Vannacci's political messaging.

Classification

Organizations

Roberto Vannacci (subject), Giuseppe Conte (victim), Elly Schlein (victim), Romano Prodi (victim), Laura Boldrini (victim)

Category

Misinformation and synthetic media

Industry

Media, social platforms and marketing

Country

Italy

Harm status

Potential harm

Intent

Unknown

Timing

Unknown

Harm types

Public interest, Psychological

Harmed

General public, Civil society

Failure modes

Deepfake video

Consequences

None recorded

AI systems

unspecified AI video generation system

Sources and evidence

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