So-called deepfakes use artificial intelligence to produce video, sound and images that are difficult to reveal as fake.
Meloni made his statement via video link to the court in Sassari, Sardinia. She said those responsible for the videos must be punished.
– This is a form of violence against women, she said according to the Italian news agency ANSA.
Seen by several millions
It is a father and son, both Italians, who are accused of making the videos, in which Meloni’s face is placed on the bodies of porn actors.
According to the prosecution, the videos were out on an American website for months, where they were viewed several million times.
Meloni, who leads the far-right party Italy’s brothers, is asking for 100,000 euros, almost NOK 1.2 million, in compensation.
She has promised to give the eventual restitution sum to a fund that supports women who have been subjected to violence from men.
Continuing in 2025
Meloni says she wants the lawsuit to send a message to women and girls who are subjected to violence and abuse, that they must not be afraid to go to court.
– The impact these videos had on me is unbearable. It’s a big strain on anyone, especially someone like me, who fights against violence against women every day, Meloni said.
The investigation against the two men began in 2020. The video was made while Meloni, who took office in October 2022, was still in opposition.
After she testified, the judge postponed further proceedings until February 2025.
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