Lionel Eddy | Updates

Ethiopia links digital ID with passport system

Lionel Eddy — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:38:02 -0400

Ethiopia is set to incorporate Fayda biometric data into its passport application process as part of a broader initiative to enhance the integration of digital identification across both public and private sectors.

Ethiopia’s Immigration and Citizenship Service or ICS has confirmed the integration of [1] the Fayda national digital ID with the passport application system, aiming to enhance the efficiency and integrity of the process. The ICS indicated that this integration aligns with the Ethiopian government’s utility-first strategy to promote the adoption of the digital ID by connecting it with an increasing number of public and private sector services. According to Selamawit Dawit who [2] is the ICS Director General, passport applications will now be processed using biometric data managed by the National Identity Authority or NIDP. This development is expected to address ongoing delays in passport issuance, a significant concern for citizens.

During [3] a recent announcement covered by Birrmetrics, the official noted that the application process for biometric passports will transition to a fully online system, as part of the government’s initiative to simplify procedures and reduce the necessity for in-person visits to passport offices. Director General Selamawit Dawit insists that this initiative is part of a grand scheme to modernize operations, improve service delivery, and finally tackle the endless complaints that have been mounting. In the past two years, the Service has purportedly implemented a series of reforms, including so-called technological upgrades and human capital restructuring. “The outdated passport service system is being overhauled. Among the key achievements is the introduction of the electronic passport, which, drawing on international best practices, is transforming our operational culture,” said Dawit.

Ethiopia has established a foundational digital ID system and is concurrently developing other digital public infrastructure. The government asserts that the Fayda ID is a key component of [4] its digital government strategy for 2030, which was announced [5] by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in December 2025. “As of today, we have officially launched Digital Ethiopia 2030. Expanding accessibility, creating equal opportunities for citizens, and strengthening trust between citizens and institutions are among the key foundational pillars of the strategy,” said Ahmed. Yodahie Arayaselassie, who [6] is the Coordinator of the National ID Programme, stated that the Fayda Digital ID is being implemented as a vital element of the Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy. At present, 30 million citizens have registered for the Fayda ID. “Under Digital Ethiopia 2030, Fayda has also been given strategic importance, with efforts underway to make it fully accessible. In particular, services at the lowest administrative levels will be integrated with Fayda to achieve the goals set out in the strategy,” said Arayaselassie.

In 2026 the national digital identification programme [7] has registered over 46 million individuals, positioning it as one of the fastest-growing digital identity initiatives in Africa and a key component of the nation's digital transformation strategy. Officials report that nearly 165 institutions, comprising banks, digital payment providers, startups, and public service agencies, have integrated with the national database. These integrations facilitate seamless identity verification, expedite service delivery, and enhance secure data exchange across various sectors.

Yodahe Zemichael who [8] is the executive director of Ethiopia's National ID Programme said, “When you get a driver's license, you have a different address. When you get a kebele ID, you have one address. When you open a bank account, you enter a different address. So there is no single source of truth for the service provider and for you, it's inconvenient because you have to spend a lot of time entering all of this data again and again, the same data. With Fayda, the process becomes frictionless. Users only need to provide their identification number, and their verified Know Your Customer information can be securely shared with authorized service providers.

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EU to launch digital euro in 2029 after approval from European Parliament

Lionel Eddy — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:37:14 -0400

The European Union has progressed in its efforts to introduce a digital euro by 2029, following the endorsement of the proposal by a significant parliamentary committee.

The European Parliament's Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs [1] has approved the proposed draft rules with a vote tally of 43 in favour , 14 against, and one abstention. The Europe of Sovereign Nations political group opposed the proposal, indicating that a subsequent vote may be required at the parliament's plenary session. Nonetheless, final approval could be achieved by the end of this year, [2] setting the stage for testing in 2027 ahead of a full launch in 2029.

The introduction of the digital euro by [3] the European Central Bank is framed as a “secure and convenient” payment solution for users, both online and offline. However, the reality presents a concerning outlook. While payment service providers, including banks and crypto-asset platforms, are positioned to distribute the digital euro, the mandate requiring businesses to accept it raises questions about its practicality and the implications for those unwilling or unable to adapt to yet another forced change.

Furthermore, the capping of individual holdings, alongside a stipulation that businesses can only hold digital euros temporarily for incoming payments, restricts economic freedom and raises concerns about liquidity. With no interest accruing on these funds, the attractiveness of the digital euro diminishes further. Additionally, the parliamentary committee's approval of measures enabling banks from non-euro EU countries to distribute the digital euro only complicates an already challenging landscape. Meanwhile, the requirement for euro area countries to ensure cash accessibility and prepare for potential digital payment failures underscores the fragility of this transition. The promise of a digital euro comes wrapped in layers of uncertainty and restrictions that may ultimately diminish its intended benefits.

The digital euro continues to face significant delays, [4] largely driven by suspicions from Eurosceptic groups that it undermines citizens' privacy and poses a risk of replacing cash altogether. Additionally, ongoing technical debates about the necessity for both ‘online’ and ‘offline’ versions only serve to further complicate an already stalled initiative. Navarrete Roja, [5] a Spanish Member of European Parliament said, “We strengthen access to and acceptance of cash while making central bank money available in digital form, the digital euro will complement cash, not replace it.” Peter Norwood, [6] a senior research and advocacy officer at Finance Watch also said [7] in a press release, “Parliament has found a majority for a digital euro that is more than another payment app. The text keeps the original ambition of the project alive ensuring inclusive access to public money in an increasingly digital payments landscape, all while protecting European sovereignty.”

However skepticism remains, In 2025 French MPs proposed [8] a bill to establish a national bitcoin reserve while formally opposing the European Central Bank's digital euro. The legislation articulates concerns regarding the potential risks of a centralized digital currency, asserting that it threatens privacy and economic freedom. Lawmakers have drawn parallels between the digital euro and China's digital yuan, warning that such a system could enable authorities to freeze citizens' funds and disrupt the banking system.

Dr. Patrick Schueffel who is [9] a professor at Fribourg’s School of Management has warned of [10] significant risks linked to CBDCs, cautioning that the digital euro may facilitate financial surveillance and control. They outline potential long-term implications, including issues of surveillance, censorship, financial oversight, and the potential misuse of data. “With a CBDC infrastructure such as the one underpinning the digital euro, a technology will be rolled out that can be abused for surveillance and control like no other in human history. Not only will it be registered on an eternal digital ledger which purchases you made from cradle to death bed, but any payment can also be censored on a keystroke,” said Schueffel.

Schueffel questions the assertion that a digital euro would positively impact the economy and society. Proponents argue that it would enable the European Central Bank to directly manage the money supply, improve control over interest rates, and bolster financial stability, all while advancing the goal of “banking the unbanked and underbanked.” However, Schueffel cautions that this perspective may be overly optimistic, warning of the potential risks associated with increased centralization. “Think it through if you advocate introducing CBDCs for these reasons, you also need to support loans directly granted by the ECB, as such central bank lending would support all of those causes.”

A public consultation released in 2021 regarding [11] the digital euro revealed that 43% of respondents favor a version that emphasizes privacy and data protection. The motivations behind this preference are diverse. Some participants believe in the inherent value of privacy, while others express concerns that the digital currency may lead to price discrimination or surveillance issues. Critics argue that the potential misuse of sensitive transaction data linked to the digital currency could adversely impact personal freedom and public life. The European Central Bank started exploring [12] the creation of a digital euro in 2019 claiming it would incorporate certain elements of anonymity. This would involve the use of anonymity vouchers, enabling users to make anonymous transfers of a limited amount of digital euros within a specific timeframe. However, this approach would permit anonymity only for smaller transactions.

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Sainsbury’s facial recognition roll out criticised by privacy campaigners

Lionel Eddy — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:36:26 -0400

Sainsbury’s is to roll out facial recognition technology to more than 200 stores by the end of 2026, however Big Brother Watch warns that the new policy exposing millions of law-abiding individuals to significant risks of privacy violations.

The facial recognition technology [1] is now active in 55 stores following a successful trial and is set to be implemented in an additional 150 stores by December 2026. The supermarket reported that the technology has been effective in reducing crime, noting that 92% of identified and banned offenders do not return to its stores. In September 2025, Sainsbury’s commenced [2] a trial of the Facewatch technology at its Sydenham superstore and Bath Oldfield convenience store despite Asda facing [3] thousands of complaints after piloting a similar facial recognition trial in April of same year. Simon Roberts who is the Chief Executive Officer of J Sainsbury plc said, “We understand that facial recognition technology can raise valid questions about data and privacy. This trial and subsequent rollout is not about monitoring colleagues or our valued customers. It's focused solely on identifying serious offenders who have committed acts of violence, aggression or theft, helping our teams prevent further harm.”

In January 2026, the [4] trial was extended to 5 locations in London, Dalston, Elephant and Castle, Ladbroke Grove, Camden and Whitechapel which the supermarket described as resulting in a significant reduction in store theft. The system notifies staff when an individual “reasonably suspected of involvement in crime” enters the store, based on reports from Sainsbury’s employees or other retailers in the vicinity. “This expansion is intentional and transparent. It helps us understand how facial recognition works when several stores in the same area adopt it at the same time, while giving colleagues and customers confidence in how it’s being introduced. Clear signage is in place at all stores using the technology, so customers know it is in operation,” said Sainsbury’s.

However, Big Brother Watch [5] has condemned the new facial recognition roll out plans, Silkie Carlo who [6] is the Director of Big Brother Watch warns this marks one of the largest expansions of facial recognition surveillance in the nation, raising significant concerns regarding privacy rights. “This is one of the biggest expansions of facial recognition surveillance in the country to date that has very serious consequences for our privacy rights. Sainsbury’s and the police can legitimately target shoplifters but have no right to take face scans from millions of ordinary customers. Sainsbury’s should halt its decision to roll out live facial recognition immediately and listen to customers’ concerns. We would urge people to shop elsewhere as long as Sainsbury’s continues taking face scans of all its customers without their consent. The government must rein in this unchecked mass privacy invasion of the public.”

In February 2026, Sainsbury’s issued [7] an apology to a customer who was removed from a store due to an error involving staff and the store's facial recognition system. The company clarified that the incident was not a result of the facial recognition technology itself, but rather a case of mistakenly approaching the wrong individual in the store. A shopper in London was at the Elephant & Castle branch of Sainsbury's when he was approached by three staff members and instructed to leave the store promptly. Jasleen Chaggar the Legal and Policy Officer for Big Brother Watch said, “The idea that we are all just one facial recognition mistake away from being falsely accused of a crime or ejected from a store without any explanation is deeply chilling. To add insult to injury, innocent people seeking remedy must jump through hoops and hand over even more personal data just to discover what they’re accused of. In the vast majority of cases, they are offered little more than an apology when companies are finally forced to admit the tech got it wrong. The government’s promise to regulate this invasive technology will be payment to lip service unless it reins in the unchecked expansion of facial recognition by retailers.”

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Digital ID to be mandatory for taxi drivers in capital city of Cameroon

Lionel Eddy — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 14:06:46 -0400

A digital identification process for taxi owners and drivers in Yaoundé, Cameroon, is scheduled to commence on July 3rd and continue until October 5th. This enrolment initiative is part of new measures implemented by the city council to identify taxis operating on the city's roads.

A recent order from the city mayor mandates [1] a new registration drive that will be compulsory for all taxi drivers and vehicles. The initiative claims it aims to modernize the country’s urban transportation system, taxis and drivers that fail to digitally register by the deadline will be prohibited from operating. Furthermore, this mayor says the digital ID system is expected to improve the urban transport sector by enhancing passenger safety, as harassment incidents in taxis are a concern. The registration campaign [2] is set to take place from July 3rd to October 5th, 2026. Following this deadline, any taxi operating in Yaoundé that has not completed the registration process will be subject to impoundment as stipulated in Article 9 of the municipal order. This measure enforces the new system as mandatory for all taxi operations in the capital.

Additionally, the order permits owners and drivers to update their information when their circumstances change. Individuals who exit the profession are required to inform the mayor's office in writing. The initiative also claims it could improve working conditions for taxi drivers, facilitate the digital management of the municipal fleet, and establish a reliable database for urban planning. The mayor announced that registration can be completed through [3] the Taxi-Yaounde.com platform. Taxi drivers will need to provide various documents, including their national ID card, driver’s license, and a recent facial photograph.

The project for identification has garnered support from several partners, including the Ministries of Transport and Urban Development and Housing, along with the sustainable city mobility [4] initiative known as Green Mobility Yaoundé and the German Development Corporation is also contributing to the initiative. MoVe Yaoundé is [5] also being funded by the European Union and the French government.

The National Identification and Registration Authority claims [6] the Somali National ID system is a “vital mechanism” for citizens and legal residents, facilitating access to essential services and opportunities across multiple sectors. It underpins various aspects, including government services, financial inclusion, healthcare, and education, by providing a means for identity verification and authentication, thereby promoting transparency, security, and efficiency.

Numerous countries in Africa are progressively adopting digital identification for various applications, including in the transport sector. In July 2025 Somalia made [7] national digital ID mandatory to access specific services provided by the transport department, such as acquiring driver’s licenses and vehicle registration certificates. Somalia's Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation [8] declared that all of its services will now necessitate the use of a National Identification Card issued by the National Identification and Registration Authority. Hamza Abdi Barre who [9] is the Prime Minister of Somalia said, “For more than 34 years, Somali citizens have lived without formal identification. This initiative will change that and contribute significantly to stabilizing and securing the country. This is not just about identification. The national ID is a platform for development politically, economically, and in terms of governance.” However, its implementation has sparked controversy. The Puntland's regional administration [10] formally opposed the national ID programme, describing it as politically motivated and a potential threat to regional autonomy.

The implementation signifies another application of digital identification in Cameroon, as the nation advances its digital transformation initiatives. It aims to extend beyond national ID enrolment by developing specific use cases that address pressing civic issues, while also illustrating how digital identity can be integrated into everyday economic transactions to foster trust among individuals. The Ministry of Secondary Education recently reached an agreement with [11] telecom company MTN Cameroon to implement digital IDs [12] for managing student profiles in colleges nationwide. In a separate initiative, the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications announced the launch of a technology innovation challenge aimed at discovering young individuals who can provide innovative digital solutions to address local issues.

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EU to push Chat Control 2.0 despite criticism from MEPs

Lionel Eddy — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 14:05:57 -0400

Months after experiencing a setback in their efforts regarding surveillance the European Union is seeking another opportunity to address the issue under conditions they deem more favorable, however Members of European Parliament remain skeptical to the new proposal.

EU ambassadors reached a consensus move forward with [1] a temporary extension of the framework that enables platforms such as WhatsApp and Messenger to monitor users’ private communications. Proponents assert that the measure aims to combat child sexual abuse material, reviving a scheme that [2] the European Parliament had voted to terminate in March. The proposal originates from the Cypriot presidency of the Council, and advancing it would be unprecedented, given that Parliament has already dismissed the Commission’s plan and typically has the final say. Members of the European Parliament caution that if the Council proceeds with the temporary instrument despite the parliament's explicit rejection, it could hinder the current negotiations aimed at establishing an anti-CSAM framework. Progressive lawmakers view the decision as a harsh effort by the EPP and the Council to undermine the wishes of the parliamentary majority.

Birgit Sippel, [3] an MEP for the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats said, “As European Parliament we were always in favour of targeted detection, with all the progress made so far on the long-term legal framework, reopening the discussion about a possible prolongation of the interim derogation would hamper those negotiations.” Markéta Gregorová, [4] an MEP for the Group of the Greens and European Free Alliance also said, “Trying to reopen the negotiations with questionable procedural tricks won't make it more successful and undermines the Parliament's position.” A study [5] titled White-Box Attacks on PhotoDNA Perceptual Hash Function conducted by researchers at KU Leuven and Ghent University has [6] revealed significant flaws in the AI-based scanning technology used to detect unknown images and texts. The researchers reverse-engineered Microsoft’s PhotoDNA, the widely adopted algorithm utilized by tech companies for Chat Control, and identified critical vulnerabilities within the system.

The study's findings indicate that the software is “unreliable.” Criminals are reportedly able to obscure illegal images with minimal modifications, such as adding a simple border. Conversely, innocuous images can be altered in ways that may trigger false reports to law enforcement. The analysis suggests that the most complex methods of manipulating the system can be executed in under ten minutes on a standard personal laptop. A study conducted by the European Parliament has [7] indicated that there is currently no method for scanning this material that would not result in error rates significant enough to intercept substantial amounts of lawful communication. Additionally, the Council's own legal service has identified the same proposal as a concern regarding the right to privacy.

Fight Chat Control has warned that [8] the Chat Control proposal seeks to authorize the scanning of all private digital communications, including encrypted messages and images. As a result this raises significant concerns about the protection of privacy rights and digital security for all citizens within the European Union. “Every photo, every message, every file you send may be automatically scanned without your consent or suspicion. This is not about catching criminals. It is mass surveillance imposed on all 450 million citizens of the European Union,” said Fight Chat Control.

Egle Markeviciute for EU Tech Loop says the proposal poses a dual threat to encryption in her column [9] titled Double threat to privacy: Chat Control 1.0 and 2.0 are back, “Some industry representatives, who had not been outspoken about the Chat Control 2.0 proposal, criticised the decision not to extend Chat Control 1.0. They argued that while they have obligations to ensure children's safety online, they will be unable to meet these obligations without being able to scan private messages,” said Markeviciute. Dr. Patrick Breyer, [10] a German civil rights activist has also raised concerns about Chat Control 2.0 stating it would lead to [11] an unprecedented “double attack” on secure messaging applications. “What we are witnessing this week is a blatant disregard for democratic processes and fundamental rights. EP President Metsola is attempting an unprecedented power play to resurrect the expired ‘Chat Control 1.0’ mass scanning regime, directly overriding her own Parliament’s clear rejection from March. Her own EPP group opposed in the final vote. This trickery betrays European democracy. At the exact same time, the European Parliament is in the process of rushing a new scanning mandate, paving the way for fatal concessions in the trilogue on Monday. EU citizens are facing a double-attack on their right to private correspondence. We cannot let undemocratic backroom deals destroy the safety, security, and confidentiality of our digital lives,” said Breyer.

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Cameroon to provide school students with digital ID cards

Lionel Eddy — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 14:04:51 -0400

Students in secondary schools in Cameroon are set to receive official digital ID cards, following a collaboration between the Ministry of Secondary Education and telecommunications company MTN Cameroon.

Recent disclosures reveal that both parties have signed an addendum to an existing Memorandum of Understanding, according [1] to a statement from the Ministry. The new student digital ID will build upon [2] a measure implemented in 2024, which assigns a unique identification number to every secondary school student. This number is generated when students submit their personal information through a dedicated portal established by the ministry. Upon entering the information into the portal, the system automatically generates the identification number and links it to the student's profile.

The proposed digital ID will be associated with a centralised database that includes data on students' academic, financial, and disciplinary histories. Officials indicate that this development will simplify the monitoring of student performance, facilitate transfers, and maintain consistency in records among institutions. In addition to the rollout of official digital ID cards, a recent addendum to the memorandum of understanding with MTN Mobile Money Corporation, the fintech branch of MTN Cameroon, aims to enhance the digitization of payments related to education.

Students in Cameroon aged 18 and older [3] are required to obtain the national digital ID, which was recently updated with a new generation launched in February 2025. The decree establishes regulations for the issuance of identity cards detailing various terms and specifying the different features and types of identity documents. These include the national identity card, residence card, refugee card, and national disability card. However, Cameroon had [4] issues with duplicate or multiple identities in the national registry that has raised concerns, particularly as it has been exploited by malicious individuals. According to a police estimate, approximately 3 million Cameroonians may possess more than one identity record, which often translates to multiple ID cards. This could be due to individuals using different names or dates of birth, as well as clerical errors resulting in duplicate entries.

Cameroon begun the process of issuing [5] new national identity cards as part of its initiative to manage digital identities in 2024, Cameroonians can now pre-enroll online to obtain the new national identity card or CNI. This biometric and digital ID has been developed by Augentic, [6] a German tech company in collaboration with the General Delegation for National Security, representing a notable advancement in identity management.

African governments [7] are progressively adopting or considering the adoption of digital identity solutions, often with the assistance of international donors. These digital IDs are anticipated to enhance access to legal identification and promote the utilization of digital services. However, they also prompt concerns regarding privacy and security. As governments and regional institutions advance their digital ID initiatives, there are increasing demands for interoperability and the establishment of a unified continental framework for digital identity.

The rising adoption of digital identities can be attributed to their affordability and convenience when compared to traditional systems. However, these systems also raise concerns regarding the potential for citizen surveillance. This issue has been acknowledged by Nigeria’s Data Protection Bureau in 2022, which urged the National Identity Management Commission [8] to establish stringent standards for privacy and data protection to enhance the nation’s digital ID framework. The National Commissioner said in a statement, “The commission which is the highest data controller in the country should be a model for other data controllers since data is the foundation of everything in the country’s digital economy. There is nothing you would want to do in the digital economy without proper identity and you can’t achieve that without adequate privacy and protection of data.”

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Madagascar enrols 2.6 million people to digital ID system

Lionel Eddy — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 12:10:04 -0400

East African nation Madagascar has registered 2.6 million individuals in its digital identity system, meanwhile the World Bank who is also financing the biometric initiative is aiming for everyone in Africa to have a digital ID by the year 2030.

Madagascar initiated [1] a pilot programme for its digital identity infrastructure in January, aiming to enrol 2 million individuals from April to June. According to government data released by Copmad, [2] the initiative surpassed its goals achieving 2.6 million registrations. This digital ID system is a crucial aspect of [3] the country's Digital Governance and Identification Management System Project or PRODIGY, [4] which is backed by $143 million in funding from the World Bank.

A critical aspect of the Prodigy initiative involves the use of advanced technology to enhance the registration process. Supported by the World Bank, the Digital Governance and Identification Management System project aims to facilitate universal birth registration and identity coverage in Madagascar. The initiative seeks to improve the ID-M system and bolster the government's ability to provide services across multiple sectors.

Laxton, [5] a leading Identity Systems Integrator, has collaborated with [6] the PRODIGY digital governance programme to implement Madagascar's digital ID scheme. Laxton has provided two types of biometric enrolment kits tailored for large-scale national registration, mobile kits and ultra-mobile kits. Each kit is designed to capture fingerprints, a facial image, and both irises. “Through the PRODIGY programme, Laxton was commissioned to design, supply, deploy, and support the mass biometric enrolment solution that would underpin Madagascar's National ID rollout. The assignment spanned the full project lifecycle: biometric enrolment kits, software deployment, database integration, field logistics, commissioning, quality assurance, training, and in-country operational support,” stated Laxton.

In 2018, the World Bank Group [7] offered extensive financial and technical assistance through the ID4D initiative at both national and regional levels in Africa. Nearly US$1 billion was being allocated for digital identification and civil registration projects across 23 African nations. The ID4D has also partnered with [8] the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Australian Government and Omidyar Network, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum. The World Bank Group have also stated in their press release that is taking measures to ensure that all individuals in Africa possess a digital identity by the year 2030. Amina Mohamed who is [9] the Deputy Secretary- General of the United Nations and Co-Chair of the ID4D High Level Advisory Council said, “Digital identification can play an important role in achieving the sustainable development goals. It can enable the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people to gain access to critical services, from education to healthcare and financing, while also advancing their legal and political rights.”

Mo Ibrahim, [10] who is the Chairman of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation and a Member of the World Bank’s ID4D High Level Advisory Council also said, “If half of our population cannot prove who they are, how can they engage and exercise their rights? Africa must get this right and be bold. We need a common approach across Africa to not only provide people with a way to prove who they are, but also put in place responsible and trusted systems which respect people’s right to privacy.” However, Tony Roberts [11] a Digital Research Fellow at the Institute of Development Studies released a report in 2025 [11] titled Biometric Digital-ID in Africa: Progress and Challenges to Date – Ten Country Case Studies which raises significant concerns regarding exclusion, rights violations, data protection, and accountability. Based on evidence collected from 10 African countries including Senegal, Ghana and Kenya, it illustrates that millions of individuals face challenges in enrolling in or safely utilizing these systems, or are opting out of participation due to fear and mistrust.

In a column for the Conversation [13] titled Biometric IDs are being rolled out in Africa Study reveals the risks and pitfalls, millions of Africans face challenges in obtaining legal identification, as government officials frequently contest their citizenship. The implementation of digital ID systems is promoted as a potential solution. However, research indicates that these initiatives may perpetuate existing discrimination and injustices. Tony Roberts wrote, “The use of biometric digital ID introduces new challenges and risks. These include risks to privacy caused by data leakage or sharing and risks of exclusion due to poor data quality or mismatches. There are also privacy risks involved because biometrics are permanent. People need to be aware and give informed consent. Data protection principles should be followed. There is a lack of adequate legal frameworks and robust digital security to prevent unauthorised access to sensitive data. Countries also lack accountability mechanisms for when data entry errors, breaches or system failures occur.”

Roberts then concluded by saying, “Independent oversight bodies are rare, as are judicial mechanisms to contain function creep where ID systems expand beyond their original scope. Governments could secure consent by saying that digital-ID will only be used for a single purpose, such as voting. But then they could make it mandatory for accessing education, healthcare, employment and banking. Without stronger legislation, clearer accountability and harmonised regional standards, digital-ID projects risk entrenching inequality and mistrust rather than delivering inclusion or security.”

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China developing digital ID systems for humanoid robots

Lionel Eddy — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 12:09:13 -0400

The Chinese government is planning to roll out unique digital identity numbers for all its humanoid robots to track them better throughout their lifecycle, meanwhile reports are stating digital ID systems are already becoming a human rights violation for their citizens.

Chinese authorities have issued new [1] guidelines concerning the management of humanoid robots and the tracking of their unique identification codes. These unique humanoid IDs are composed of 4 segments, a 2-digit code for cross-border shipment tracking, a 4-digit code indicating the manufacturing Chinese firm, a 6-digit product code that identifies the type of humanoid robot, and a 17-digit serial code for the individual robots as outlined in the guidelines. This initiative currently involves more than 100 Chinese manufacturers, with over 28,000 humanoid robots across 200 models assigned a digital ID.

The programme is directed by [2] the Humanoid Robotics and Embodied Intelligence Standardisation or HEIS, which operates under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Reports indicate that humanoid robots currently in use within the country are not yet fully autonomous, often struggling with precision and the necessary dexterity to perform a variety of tasks. These robots are primarily deployed for site-specific trials across various industries; however, experts have observed that their efficiency remains limited compared to human capabilities, largely due to their restricted dexterity.

Yu Xiuming, vice president of the China Electronics Standardization Institute, [3] stated that the assignment of the code enables robots to maintain control across various fields, industries, and roles. This initiative aims to address fundamental issues related to safety, management, and governance, thereby facilitating the practical use of humanoid robots. “The high-quality globalization of humanoid robots urgently requires a standardized management system with unified rules. This initiative not only provides the technical groundwork for international mutual recognition and cross-border circulation but also strengthens China's role in shaping global standards and competitiveness in the sector,” said Yu Xiuming.

GigaAI, a prominent Chinese robotics and artificial intelligence start up, introduced [4] the first general-purpose household humanoid robot in China named the SeeLight S1. This development came in partnership with the Hubei Humanoid Robot Innovation Centre and the Hubei Humanoid Robotics Industry Alliance. The robot will be available for families to test at no cost in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province, starting in the first half of 2027. In 2024, the Ministry of Public Security and the Cyberspace Administration of China [5] proposed a nationwide rollout of digital IDs. The draft provision claims it would prevent the misuse of existing real-name registration systems by internet platforms and commercial entities, addressing privacy concerns and the risks of potential data leaks. The new Digital ID system is positioned as a voluntary program, offering users an additional layer of online identity by substituting their real names and phone numbers currently used for registration on internet platforms.

However, according to [6] a report from Tibcert titled New Digital ID proposal of China – A nail in the coffin for user privacy and online anonymity? China has emerged as a leader in utilizing digital technologies to control, monitor, and restrict the rights of its citizens and ethnic minorities. “Despite the government’s claim of pushing Digital IDs to protect the personal data of internet users from commercial entities, many experts don’t agree with the narrative. Academicians, researchers and lawyers believe that the claim of this digital ID program is a facade used by the government to regain more rigid and centralized control of individual or collective expressions online,” said the report.

“On a societal and national level, this new digital ID programme is yet another addition to China’s pre-existing use of technology and biometric surveillance against their citizens and oppressed minorities including Uyghurs and Tibetans. In times where the global market’s focus towards user privacy and security in technology sectors are on the rise, such vague digital IDs could pose huge challenges for Chinese technological entities to collaborate with the global technological market and align with pre-existing international security standards.” Another report from Tibet Watch states [7] that the Chinese government has increased its digital surveillance efforts in Tibet, as evidenced by the mandatory installation of the National Anti-Fraud Centre app on smartphones.

In a document [8] titled Weaponising Big Data: Decoding China’s digital surveillance in Tibet it states that people in Tibet are monitored through the devices in their pockets and surveillance cameras positioned outside their homes. Their realities are being analysed, often without their awareness, contributing to increased control under the Chinese Communist Party's system. “The integration of a panoply of advanced technologies in Tibet - AI-driven systems fusing facial recognition with internet browsing and app-based monitoring, to DNA and genomic surveillance, and GIS tracking data - underlines the emergence of a terrifying approach to governance in the 21st century. It uses machine learning to power systems that prioritise state control and suppression over individual liberties and self-determination,” said the Executive Summary.

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UK government will deploy AI facial recognition to assess age of asylum seekers

Lionel Eddy — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 12:08:14 -0400

An artificial intelligence age estimation tool designed to identify adult migrants is set to be implemented at the UK’s borders in 2027.

The UK government has awarded a contract to Akhter Computers Ltd, [1] a products and services based in Harlow, to develop and test [2] an AI facial recognition tool designed to estimate the ages of asylum seekers at the border. The contract, valued at £322,000 over three years, includes plans for further testing before a projected rollout in 2027. According to the Home Office, speaking to reporters they claims it would identify adults “attempting to game the system,” following initial tests that demonstrated “promising performance and accuracy.”

In response, Human Rights Watch, [3] an organisation that investigates and reports on abuses, has called on the UK government to abandon the initiative, labeling it “unproven technology.” Additionally, Home Office data indicates there were 111,084 asylum claims in the year ending June 2025, representing a 14% increase, while in the year ending March 2026, over 6,400 individuals claiming to be children underwent age assessments, revealing that 43% were found to be adults.

On July, 2025, the UK government of the use of AI face-scanning technology to assess the age of asylum seekers raised concerns about the potential risks to children seeking refuge. Angela Eagle, [4] who was the Minister for Border Security and Asylum, said [5] to the Houser of Commons, “Accurately assessing the age of individuals is an incredibly complex and difficult task, and the Home Office has spent a number of years analysing which scientific and technological methods would best assist the current process, including looking at the role that artificial intelligence technology can play. Since coming into office, this Government have commissioned further tests and analysis to determine the most promising methods to pursue further,” said Eagel.

“Based on this work, we have concluded that the most cost-effective option to pursue is likely to be facial age estimation, whereby AI technology trained on millions of images where an individual’s age is verifiable is able to produce an age estimate with a known degree of accuracy for an individual whose age is unknown or disputed.” Companies in the UK that evaluated their technology in select supermarkets, pubs, and online platforms [6] developed systems to predict whether an individual appears to be under 25 years old rather than 18.

In a column [7] titled UK Plans AI Experiment on Children Seeking Asylum, researchers [8] Hye Jung Han and [9] Anna Bacciarelli said in 2025, “AI face scans were never designed for children seeking asylum, and risk producing disastrous, life-changing errors. Algorithms identify patterns in the distance between nostrils and the texture of skin, they cannot account for children who have aged prematurely from trauma and violence. They cannot grasp how malnutrition, dehydration, sleep deprivation, and exposure to salt water during a dangerous sea crossing might profoundly alter a child’s face,” said the researchers. “These AI systems’ inability to explain or reproduce results further erodes a child’s right to redress and remedy following wrongful assessment, while creating new privacy and non-discrimination risks. The UK government has repeatedly and illegally subjected children seeking asylum to abusive conditions by wrongly classifying them as adults.”

In 2023, The High Court determined that [10] the Home Office's practice of routinely placing unaccompanied child asylum seekers in hotels was unlawful. The legal challenge was initiated by [11] the charity Every Child Protected Against Trafficking, which argued that the conditions under which these children are housed do not meet necessary standards. Justice Martin Chamberlain, [12] a court judge said, “It cannot be used systematically or routinely in circumstances where it is intended, or functions in practice, as a substitute for local authority care. From December 2021 at the latest, the practice of accommodating children in hotels, outside local authority care, was both systematic and routine and had become an established part of the procedure for dealing with unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. From that point on, the home secretary’s provision of hotel accommodation for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children exceeded the proper limits of her powers and was unlawful.”

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Digital ID plans included in Kings Speech

Lionel Eddy — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 12:07:07 -0400

The speech from King Charles III detailed proposals for a Digital Access to Services Bill aimed at creating a legal framework for digital identity usage.

The King's Speech highlighted a renewed initiative [1] by the UK government to advance the implementation of a digital ID scheme. This scheme is designed to establish a national ID that enhances the accessibility and security of public services, potentially extending to private sector services like gym memberships and parcel collections. The initiative is now supported by forthcoming legislation, specifically the Digital Access to Services Bill, which will provide the legal framework necessary for the government to create, issue, and utilize a digital ID. “My ministers will also proceed with the introduction of digital ID that will modernise how citizens interact with public services,” said King Charles.

The digital ID scheme [2] was initially introduced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer in September 2025. It was originally presented as a mandatory requirement for right to work checks. “I know working people are worried about the level of illegal migration into this country. A secure border and controlled migration are reasonable demands, and this government is listening and delivering,” said Keir Starmer. “Digital ID is an enormous opportunity for the UK. It will make it tougher to work illegally in this country, making our borders more secure. And it will also offer ordinary citizens countless benefits, like being able to prove your identity to access key services swiftly - rather than hunting around for an old utility bill.”

However, in January 2026, the UK government reversed [3] this decision and removed the compulsory component in response to significant opposition from privacy advocates. Employers are set to be mandated to perform right to work checks digitally by 2029, but employees will not be required to obtain a government digital ID. Instead, they will have the option to use physical documents, a private sector ID, or the government’s digital ID.

In a [4] publication released by the UK government, it stated on page 79, “The government is renewing Britain with accessible public services that work for citizens and come together on the Gov.uk app. The app will become the front door to accessing public services as with online banking or shopping apps with the digital ID system at its foundation.” On page 80 the publication said the Digital Access to Services Bill would, “Establish the legal framework for the government to create, issue and use Digital ID. Set out the information the Digital ID credential will contain, and provide for how it can be issued, maintained, stored, and verified, as well as eligibility requirements.”

On March 10, 2026 the UK government [5] initiated an 8 week consultation regarding its digital ID scheme, seeking public input on the design and implementation of the digital identity system. The consultation aimed to gather opinions on the functionality of the digital ID, ensuring it remains accessible for those who may be digitally excluded. Ministers reportedly visited each region of the UK during the consultation to gather feedback on the initiative. Darren Jones, who is [6] the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister said, “People too often dread their interactions with public services. Endless telephone calls, complicated printed forms and having to tell your story multiple times to different parts of government. I want to change that and make public services work for you. The new digital ID will make that possible, allowing you to log on and prove who you are to access public services more quickly, easily and securely.”

However, the Electronic Frontier Foundation or EFF [7] sent a submission to the UK consultation on digital ID claiming the scheme is an infringements on privacy rights, a serious security risks and would lead to deepening of entrenched power imbalances between the state and the public. The Electronic Frontier Foundation [8] said in its submission, “Digital ID regimes strip privacy from everyone and further marginalise those seeking asylum. They are pursued as a technological solution to offline problems but instead allow the state to determine what you can access, not just verify who you are, by functioning as a key to opening or closing doors to essential services and experiences.”

On storing, managing and using the digital ID the Electronic Frontier Foundation also said, “Digital ID systems expand the number of entities that may access personal information and consequently use it to track and surveil people across the country. Accordingly, to advance individuals’ privacy, there should be a simple, quick way to delete information linked to a digital ID. If information about places that the digital ID has been used are being stored in a central database, such as at the digital ID provider, people must be able to quickly and easily see all the linked information and remove linked services.”

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Digital ID systems discriminate against migrants says report

Lionel Eddy — Sun, 31 May 2026 14:16:31 -0400

A report by an organisation called Caribou has indicated that digital ID systems globally have ongoingly intensified the exclusionary issues they claim to mitigate.

Caribou, [1] a research organisation specialising in AI and digital Identity has published a report [2] titled Digital Identity and Migration: Struggles for Equitable Technology Governance is based on extensive fieldwork carried out in Kenya and Germany as part of Caribou’s “Identity in the Age of Migration” project. It provides a detailed evaluation of the discriminatory and biased implementation of biometric digital ID systems, cautioning that without urgent corrective actions, the global digital identity revolution risks proceeding in an unfavorable direction.

The report said in its introduction, “Digital identity has emerged as a booming industry, and as a critical battleground in global struggles for equitable technology governance. Despite progressive rhetoric around new and decentralized models of identity management, prevailing systems remain highly centralized and concentrated in the hands of governments and private companies. The European Commission has adopted legislation [3] that mandates member governments to develop digital identity wallets, emphasizing user empowerment and data protection. But without adequate safeguards these efforts risk reproducing existing exclusions under new technological guises.”

Research conducted in Kenya and Germany reveals that documented migrants are often ensnared in bureaucratic processes that existing digital systems fail to address. In Germany, for example, an asylum seeker reported being issued an ID document that listed their nationality as “unclear,” despite having provided significant evidence of their Syrian origin. A similar situation is observed in Kenya, where refugees frequently encounter barriers to accessing the country's digital public infrastructure or DPI, including mobile money services, due to issues such as SIM card registration or exclusion from the national health database.

Kenya [4] has faced significant criticism regarding exclusion, human rights, and privacy concerns associated with its ongoing digital ID initiatives. Professor Laura Bingham and Dr. Thomas Fisher, [5] a senior researcher at [6] Privacy International, have raised concerns about the ID system, highlighting several shortcomings related to privacy, data security, and inclusion. Bingham stated that contrary to government assertions, the ID system features a centralised data repository, which could potentially serve as a surveillance mechanism to inhibit dissenting voices. The researchers also argue that the ongoing challenge of digital ID exclusion affecting migrants and other forcibly displaced individuals is primarily a political issue rather than a technological one. This assertion is supported by an examination of three distinct digital ID cases that utilize the same technology but are driven by vastly different political agendas.

They claim that the ID system may be exclusionary, particularly affecting citizens in various communities, notably those near the borders, who feel left out of the benefits the system is intended to provide. A petition questioning the fairness and legality of Maisha Namba, a digital identity system, has been filed at the Milimani Law Courts. Experts have expressed concerns that the system could further marginalize millions of undocumented citizens [7] as reported by The Eastleigh Voice.

Laura Bingham said, “The Maisha Namba system assumes that everyone can prove their Kenyan nationality. But for many communities that have historically struggled to access national IDs and birth certificates, this system will only deepen their exclusion.” Tom Fisher also said, “You can change your password, but you cannot change your biometrics.” Maisha Namba is the newly introduced digital identification system aimed at providing citizens and residents with a unique personal identifier or UPI from birth. This system is set to replace the existing National ID framework and seeks to consolidate various government services into a centralized database utilizing biometric data, which includes fingerprint, facial, and iris scans.

The report also examines [8] the EU digital ID wallet, which excludes non-EU migrants by design, as well as [9] the BritCard proposed by the UK government, which is partially positioned as a measure to combat undocumented immigration. It also addresses the Red Cross’s DIGID initiative in Kenya, a blockchain-based wallet aimed at providing services to refugees lacking official identification. Despite showing potential for inclusivity, DIGID ultimately struggled to expand beyond its pilot projects, primarily due to insufficient funding.

On page 11 of Case Study 2 the report said, “The proposed BritCard uses migration concerns as an entry point for a system that would ultimately affect all UK residents. It is an enforcement oriented rather than rights-based digital solution, explicitly targeting those deemed ‘irregular.’ By contrast, EUDI claims universal empowerment for EU citizens and residents, but creates broader systematic exclusion of all non-EU migrants regardless of legal status through its technical requirements; an EU e-ID and advanced smartphone access are prerequisites. In our research, one migrant participant suggested, ‘it’s not for people like me.’”

In a 2025 statement, Caribou urged [10] nations to prioritize the resolution of legal and institutional factors contributing to statelessness prior to considering the implementation of inclusive digital identity systems. The discussion centres on [11] the risks associated with new identification systems for individuals who are, or may be, stateless. Caribou warns about the UN Sustainable Development Goals digital ID objectives, It also contends that without targeted measures to guarantee the recognition or granting of nationality, either by the state of residence or another state, these new identification systems are likely to reproduce or exacerbate existing patterns of exclusion. “The agenda set by the UN Sustainable Development Goals does indeed imply that states should ‘provide legal identity for all, including birth registration’. Others, however, have warned of the dangers of the rapid rollout of new biometric and digital identification technologies to fulfill this target, and the risk of enabling surveillance without ensuring rights,” said the report.

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Disney to roll out facial recognition technology at Disneyland Resort

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 09 May 2026 14:30:09 -0400

The Walt Disney Company has officially implemented facial recognition technology at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, advancing from a phase of limited testing to full operational deployment at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.

Disneyland has [1] implemented facial recognition technology at its park entrances to facilitate ticket verification, a trend that is being adopted by various major entertainment venues. The system scans guests' faces, converts the data into numerical identifiers, and matches it with existing ticket information. The Walt Disney Company said on it official website. “We have implemented technical, administrative and physical security measures that are designed to protect guest information from unauthorized access, disclosure, use and modification. From time to time, we review our security procedures to consider new technology and methods, as appropriate.”

Although the use of this technology is described as optional, the structure of the system effectively makes participation the norm. The majority of entry lanes utilize facial recognition, while manual ticket verification is often slower and less user-friendly. Privacy experts have [2] warned that the technology normalizes surveillance practices and presents potential security risks. Ari Waldman, who is [3] a professor of law at UC Irvine said, “The normalization of facial surveillance is really problematic. We can’t go around life hiding our faces, so this isn’t just next step in surveillance; it’s qualitatively different. In a world of facial recognition, when people leave their house, it automatically means they’re identified.”

The Electronic Frontier Foundation, [4] a organization opposing the federal government's use of facial recognition data, has called for the enhancement of laws aimed at protecting consumers when this technology is employed by private businesses. Adam Schwartz, who is [5] a privacy litigation director at the Electronic Frontier Foundation said “If you collect this type of data you have put a target on your back for people to steal it.” Visitors navigating busy entry points typically have limited time and information to provide meaningful consent, with many unaware that opting out is an available option. Consequently, the concept of “consent” may be influenced by the inconvenience of alternate entry methods.

Families may feel implicit pressure to provide biometric data for minors without sufficient disclosure regarding the storage and potential future use of that data. Unlike traditional forms of identification, biometric identifiers are immutable, meaning that once shared, they cannot be reset or changed. The decision to use this technology, which is made quickly at the entrance to the theme park, could have significant implications for individuals over the long term.

At Intuit Dome, attendees have [6] the option to utilize GameFaceID for expedited entry to Clippers games and other live events. To participate, guests are required to upload a selfie, enabling the technology to create facial recognition data for identification at the venue. “GameFace ID allows you to Zoom Thru the entrance so you can leave your phone in your pocket and just walk right on in. To set your GameFace ID, follow the steps during the profile completion process, take a selfie when prompted and save it. It’s that easy,” said the Intuit Dome on its Know Before You Go Page. Individuals without a GameFace ID will need to use their Intuit Dome Identity Pass for access to the venue. To utilize the Identity Pass, users must have their phone ready and their Identity Pass prepared for tapping at the entrance. After finalizing their profile, users are required to add the Identity Pass to their digital Wallet.

The Disneyland deployment is a component of a larger historical context. In the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks, [7] the USA PATRIOT Act was enacted during George W. Bush's presidency, significantly [8] increasing the authority of intelligence and law enforcement agencies. Large-scale data collection, previously regarded as exceptional, became a standardized practice. The American Civil Liberties Union expressed concerns that the definition is overly broad, potentially encompassing political dissent from activists participating in protests related to global trade, environmental policies, and other matters. The definition may also be sufficiently expansive to include labour strikes and various forms of working-class struggle.

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Papua New Guinea to roll out mandatory digital ID in 2026

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 05 May 2026 16:56:11 -0400

The Papua New Guinean government has announced that it will require all business entities participating in state tenders to use the national digital ID as a mandatory form of authentication.

Papua New Guinea is set to mandate their national digital ID system for all business entities involved in government procurement authentication, marking the first expansion of the SevisPass platform from individual users to the commercial sector. Peter Tsiamalili Jnr who [1] is the Acting Minister for Department of Works and Highways made announcement made [2] at Contractors Conference in April 2026. “Digital ID is a one-stop shop. Going forward, every submission on any procurement will require a Digital ID to authenticate exactly who you are. If you have not accustomed yourself to where technology is heading, you will be left behind,” said Peter Tsiamalili Jnr. “AI is a tool that is cross-cutting. It isn’t just for civil works; it is even impacting the legal perspectives of our government, Industry players must adapt to these tools because they are the primary drivers of modern efficiency.”

Ministers claim the implementation of digital IDs for businesses aims to promote transparency and mitigate fraud. This initiative aligns with [3] the National Digital Identity Policy 2025, which outlines the government's plan to provide a secure and interoperable digital ID to every citizen. Timothy Masiu who [4] is the Minister for Information and Communication Technology said in the statement, “As Minister for Information and Communications Technology, I am proud to champion the Digital ID Policy 2025, a transformative step toward a secure and inclusive digital future for Papua New Guinea. This policy establishes SevisPass as a trusted digital identity, enabling seamless access to government, financial, health, and education services for all citizens.”

The National Executive Council or NEC also approved a proposal from the Department of Information and Communications Technology aimed at creating a Digital Identity and Trust Framework. According to government sources, the digital ID is designed for utilization with public services and has the potential to enhance data protection within the country. The SevisPass [5] a digital infrastructure, is expanding its capabilities to include remote Know Your Customer or KYC checks for online banking, indicating that the identity infrastructure required for procurement is also being applied to private sector financial services. The government's requirement for digital ID authentication in procurement submissions suggests that private sector participation in the SevisPass ecosystem is becoming a prerequisite for conducting business with the state.

Consultations continue regarding the draft National Sovereign Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence Strategy, a comprehensive plan designed to integrate Papua New Guinea's digital government, digital public infrastructure, critical digital infrastructure, and AI adoption on a national level. The draft strategy [6] was released for public comment on March 23rd. James Marape who [7] is the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea said in the statement, “Fellow Papua New Guineans, government exists to serve you simply, fairly, and with respect. Around the world, Artificial Intelligence is changing how services are delivered. Used responsibly, AI can help government reduce delays, cut paperwork, improve accuracy, protect public money, and make services easier to access especially for people who live far from major centres. This Citizen Guide explains, in plain language, how Papua New Guinea will adopt AI in government in a way that protects your privacy, keeps humans accountable for decisions, and respects our culture and heritage. AI must never replace the values of public service. It must strengthen them fairness, transparency, integrity, and trust. Thank you for being part of PNG’s digital future.”

The document outlines that future applications of artificial intelligence will be integrated with fundamental components of digital public infrastructure or DPI, including digital ID SevisPass, [8] payment system SevisPay, data exchange system SevisDEx, digital wallet SevisWallet, and SevisPortal. “Papua New Guinea is embarking on a transformative journey to establish a robust and inclusive Digital Identity and Trust Framework, a foundational step towards realizing its broader vision for Digital Public Infrastructure. At the heart of this initiative lies SevisPass, a digital ID credential designed to serve as the cornerstone for secure, inclusive, and interoperable access to both public and private services,” said the Executive Summary.

SevisPass Digital ID was [9] initially trailed in 2024 and officially launched the following year in 2025. TECH5, [10] a company specializing in biometrics and digital identity solutions, has been selected as the technology partner by the government for this project, offering its T5-OmniTrust platform. Papua New Guinea is set to implement a tiered system for ID assurance. Under this plan, citizens will have the option to obtain a Tier 1 SevisPass, which offers a low assurance level and allows for the creation of an initial identity profile necessary for pre-registration into other identification systems. The issuance of this ID will necessitate the collection of biometric data and certain mandatory demographic information.

Rob Haslam who [11] is the Chief Strategy Officer at TECH5 said in an interview, “With this project, we are cementing our leadership of the Digital Public Infrastructure space where we bring together our entire portfolio of technologies to create trust frameworks where citizens, governments and private enterprises alike can extract and create value from trustable digital ID. This project is now one of three national-level implementations where TECH5’s technology is bringing digital ID into the 21st century. We are proud to be part of this transformational initiative in PNG and trust shown by the DICT in our capabilities to deliver.”

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Government in Jordan makes digital ID mandatory for access to public services

Lionel Eddy — Sun, 03 May 2026 13:44:21 -0400

Jordan have approved amendments to the civil status registration legislation, which establishes a digital ID system and requires its use for accessing public services.

Amendments to the law were approved by a majority of members of the House of Representatives on April 13, following discussions by Parliament’s Legal Committee, [1] according to Jordan News. The legislation encompasses three main provisions, one of which is the formal adoption of a digital ID, mandated for access to various services in both the government and private sectors.

The law will come into effect once it is officially published. The digital ID is characterized in the legislation as the electronic equivalent of a citizen’s national ID card and will be recognized by all government entities and private sector organizations. Its issuance will be limited to platforms sanctioned [2] by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship.

Additionally, the legislation introduces a digital mail address system that requires all citizens over the age of 18 to submit their physical addresses, which will be used for communication regarding administrative matters and other correspondences. The legislation introduces a digital mail address system that mandates all citizens over the age of 18 to declare their physical addresses. This system will ensure that citizens are informed of all administrative matters and correspondences pertaining to them.

The revised law includes fines for missing documents. The fees for obtaining replacement IDs or family books for first, second, and subsequent losses have been set at 10, 15, and 30 Jordanian dinars, respectively. [3] The Jordan government states that the modifications to the civil registration law are part of a broader initiative to enhance the nation’s digital transformation. Authorities contend that by making digital IDs mandatory for public service access, the transition to a fully digital ecosystem will be accelerated, providing greater convenience for citizens. They argue that the digital ID will facilitate secure and trusted online transactions while improving the efficiency of the country’s public administration.

Jordanians have been utilizing [4] the Sanad digital government application to access public services, which incorporates iris biometrics technology from IrisGuard, [5] an electronic payment solutions company based in the UK. In 2025, officials [6] reported that 80% of public services were available through this platform. Key developments included the introduction of the electronic passport, airport e-gates, a unified national government services registry, a tax e-invoicing system, and an open data platform that hosts over 3,800 datasets. In the health sector, the Digital Health Centre was established, launching telemedicine services in five peripheral hospitals during the initial phase.

The national vaccination platform and the birth and death notification system were upgraded, while digital IDs for foreigners and refugees were activated, raising the total number of activated digital identities to two million, according to the ministry. Furthermore, by December 2025, 9,000 public sector employees had received training in artificial intelligence applications. The introduction of the digital ID means customers can carry out banking transactions without the need for a physical ID card. Customers would utilize the digital ID in conjunction with the bank's queuing system. This service was developed in partnership with [7] the Jordanian IT firm OFFTEC, as [8] reported by Sahara News.

In July, the Arab Bank become [9] the first bank in Jordan to accept national digital ID as a substitute for a physical identification card. “The move is part of Arab Bank’s ongoing commitment to driving digital transformation with maximum speed, efficiency, and security. Through the new service, customers can present their digitally certified ID via the Sanad app by scanning the QR code displayed in the digital document, which will be officially recognized as a valid form of identification at the bank’s branches throughout the Kingdom,” said the Arab Bank in a statement. “This initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship the governmental body enabling Jordan’s digital infrastructure which seeks to expand the use of digital IDs across sectors through strategic initiatives aimed at streamlining processes and improving service efficiency.”

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WHO launches initiative for digital health wallet

Lionel Eddy — Sun, 03 May 2026 13:43:02 -0400

A regional initiative aimed at digitisation is integrating millions of health records into a system influenced by controls implemented during the pandemic.

The World Health Organisation, or WHO, in collaboration with [1] its Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research and the Temasek Foundation, has initiated a three-year programme aimed at transitioning paper health records in Southeast Asia to digital health wallets.

The programme claims its [2] objective is to provide individuals with portable and verified access to their medical information. However, the WHO has faced scrutiny for its role during the COVID-19 pandemic, which included [3] establishing a global censorship framework in partnership with Silicon Valley, advocating for vaccine passport systems that limited individuals freedom of movement, and enhancing the visibility of Chinese authorities while seeking the authority to regulate public discourse.

The WHO's current initiative seeks to gain the trust of the public as it aims to manage the digital health records of hundreds of millions of individuals across the ASEAN region. This programme is specifically aimed at [4] ASEAN member states and plans to replace traditional paper-based records, such as vaccination Yellow Cards and child health booklets, with cryptographically verified digital wallets through the WHO’s Global Digital Health Certification Network.

Mr Kee Kirk Chuen who [5] is the Head of Health & Well-being at the Temasek Foundation said, “The COVID-19 pandemic showed how important it is for health records to be trusted, verifiable and able to travel with people across borders. Through our partnership with WHO, the Temasek Foundation hopes to support countries in moving from fragmented paper records to secure Digital Health Wallets that individuals can carry with them wherever they go. By testing this approach in pilot ASEAN Member States, we aim to demonstrate how trusted digital tools can strengthen health systems, improve continuity of care, including for families and children and build the local capabilities needed for governments to scale these systems nationally. If successful, this effort can help turn global digital health standards into practical solutions that benefit communities across the region.”

The GDHCN, which supports these wallets, is not a novel technology developed for a new purpose. The World Health Organisation adopted [6] the European Union’s digital COVID vaccine passport framework to establish a global network of digital health certificates. The EU’s COVID certificate system was distributed to over 2.3 billion individuals and served as the foundation for a checkpoint society that linked basic freedoms, such as dining at restaurants and boarding flights, to vaccination status.

This system is currently being repurposed and expanded beyond its initial objectives into a permanent platform intended to digitise all personal health information. What began as emergency infrastructure during the pandemic is evolving into the primary framework for how governments oversee their citizens’ health data. The European Commission said on its website, “To facilitate the uptake of the EU Digital COVID Certificate by the WHO and contribute to its operation and further development, the WHO and the European Commission have agreed to partner in digital health.”

The World Health Organisation's approach to post-pandemic recovery has not succeeded in restoring public trust. Andy Pattison who [7] is a senior official at the WHO, has openly supported the idea of establishing [8] a permanent partnership between global health authorities and major technology companies. He proposed the creation of what he termed “a health online collective,” aimed at maintaining the high levels of corporate collaboration experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic on a continuous and institutional basis. The primary objective extends beyond merely disseminating information.

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US state of Idaho bans mandatory digital ID

Lionel Eddy — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:48:47 -0400

Idaho has become one of the few states to officially oppose mandatory digital identification.

Brad Little who [1] is the Governor of Odaho enacted [2] the Senate Bill 1299. This new legislation takes a rare stance in contemporary American state politics by opposing the adoption of digital identification rather than advocating for its implementation. The legislation [3] establishes Section 67-2364 of the Idaho Code, which prohibits government entities from mandating individuals to obtain, maintain, present, or use digital identification. While there is a national trend favoring digital ID systems, with states such as Arkansas, Texas, Georgia, and Utah moving forward with their own initiatives in 2025, Idaho appears to be diverging from this trajectory.

The bill, introduced by Tammy Nichols, [4] a State Senator for District 10 in Idaho, extends beyond a mere opt-out option. It forbids public entities from denying, delaying, conditioning, or reducing any service, benefit, license, employment, education, or access due to a person’s refusal or inability to utilize digital identification. The inclusion of the term “or inability” safeguards individuals who cannot use digital ID, not just those who choose not to. Individuals without a smartphone, consistent internet access, or the technical skills required to navigate a digital wallet will retain full access to government services. Furthermore, physical, non-digital identification is deemed “valid for all governmental purposes” under this legislation.

Additionally, the bill stipulates protocols for situations where an individual voluntarily presents a digital ID during a government interaction. A government entity is prohibited from requiring an individual to surrender, unlock, or relinquish control of a personal electronic device for identity verification. The act of handing over a phone to a police officer or a clerk at the DMV differs from presenting a laminated card. Government agencies are also prohibited from using digital identification as a means of surveillance, according to the new law. It specifically forbids these agencies from tracking individuals, retaining identity data beyond a single transaction, or employing digital identification as a universal credential across different agencies.

In March, 2026 the Idaho House of Representatives [5] approved a bill that would enable residents to obtain digital identification cards with a 37-33 vote. [6] The House Bill 78, introduced [7] by Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen, stated it would empower the Idaho Transportation Department to issue electronic driver’s licenses and ID cards accessible through mobile wallet applications. Should the bill be enacted, the digital driver’s licenses would be optional, and individuals utilizing a mobile driver’s license would still need to possess a physical driver’s license. Michelson said, “By moving to a mobile driver’s license system, it actually is more secure than the current system in which your driver’s license exists, because it moves it into a … trusted vault that protects your data.”

However, several lawmakers still raised privacy and security concerns. [8] Rep. Joe Alfieri who voted against the bill said, “We have a much further area to be concerned about, besides our being hacked, our individual information being hacked the possibility of creating digital citizens who can collect benefits or, by the way, vote.” [9] Rep. Rod Furniss also said, “If we had a room full of 25 year olds in this room, they would think we are old fuddy-duddies for not putting this on our phone and not making it legal and not being a step in the right direction. This is going to come in the future, whether you want it or not.” [10] Rep. Brandon Mitchell who opposed the bill indicated that sheriffs in his district, as well as several heads of university security departments he consulted, were against the legislation. “‘No, this is a bad idea. My students could hack into that in minutes’, is what they were telling me,” said Mitchell.

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Nepal rolls out integrated digital ID system

Lionel Eddy — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:47:49 -0400

A new integrated digital service has been launched by the government in Nepal for citizens seeking to apply for citizenship certificates and national identity cards, however it faces acceptance problem with the Nagarik app.

Nepal's Ministry of Home Affairs has confirmed the establishment of interoperability between the Centralized Citizenship Management Information System and the National Identity Management Information System. These two significant databases had previously functioned independently. Om Prakash Aryal, [1] who was the Home Minister announced the reform while visiting the District Administration Office in Lalitpur.

He informed reporters that this integration will eliminate [2] the ongoing necessity for citizens to provide the same personal information to multiple government offices. “By linking the two systems, we have made services more citizen-friendly and efficient. People will now receive hassle-free services without duplicating paperwork,” Minister Aryal said. The Nepali government has announced that the integrated service has been launched from various service points and will be gradually extended nationwide. Officials indicate that the main goal is to reduce administrative burdens and enhance accessibility, especially for citizens who previously needed to make multiple trips for documentation and biometric verification.

However, an increasing number of Nepalis are expressing dissatisfaction with [3] the Nagarik app, the government's primary digital identity platform, as several institutions continue to reject its verified digital documents. The app claims it would enable citizens to use digital versions of citizenship certificates, licenses, PAN cards, and other forms of identification. Users have reported ongoing challenges, with banks, hospitals, and government offices still requiring physical copies [4] according to The Kathmandu Post. One reviewer said, “I am very disappointed with the Nagarik App, If digital documents cannot be used for official verification without showing a physical citizenship card, national ID, or passport, then what is the real purpose of this platform?”

Pakistan faces [5] a comparable issue regarding digital identification, albeit with key distinctions. The National Database and Registration Authority or NADRA has endorsed the legality of digital IDs, providing official guidance on the acceptance of documents obtained through Pak ID. Citizens experiencing refusal of their digital IDs have the option to file complaints through official channels to facilitate corrective measures. The NADRA Digital Identity Regulations 2025 officially confer full legal recognition to digital identity credentials. Regulations 9 and 10 specifically address the legal acknowledgment and acceptance of these credentials.

In Februry, 2025 the Pakistan government [6] made amendments to the National Identity Card Rules 2002 and the Pakistan Origin Card Rules 2002. These changes incorporate QR-based verification, enhanced anti-fraud measures, and improved biometric recognition within the country's identity framework.Nepal’s officials have stated that the application was designed for system-based verification rather than for showcasing images of documents. They also noted that wider adoption necessitates collaboration among ministries and agencies responsible for the underlying data. Digital governance experts contend that Nepal requires formal legal acknowledgment of digital IDs and secure mechanisms for transactional verification.

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European Parliament votes against EU's Chat Control proposal

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 13:43:55 -0400

Members of the European Parliament have rejected proposals that would permit tech companies to continue monitoring private messages.

The European Parliament [1] has rejected the proposed Chat Control measure, which aimed to implement automated scanning of private photos and text messages. The decision came down to a single vote, highlighting a narrow margin that prevented the ongoing mass surveillance of private communications by American technology firms. Following this decision, the remaining elements of the proposal did not garner the necessary majority support.

During the vote [2] in the chamber 311 Members of the European Parliament voted to oppose a motion to extend a derogation to the e-Privacy directive, while 228 members supported it, and 92 abstained. This decision means that technology companies are no longer legally permitted to conduct mass scanning of private messages.

However, law enforcement agencies retain the ability to surveil private messages if they have specific suspicions and have obtained a judicial warrant. They can also carry out routine scanning of public posts and files. The European Commission initially proposed a requirement for all email and messaging providers to implement mass scanning of all messages, including those that are end-to-end encrypted, in 2022. This proposal faced significant criticism from both technology companies and legal experts.

Automated AI assessments focused on images and videos that the algorithms had not encountered before. Text analysis examined private chat conversations for potentially suspicious language. This process occurred without a warrant, individual suspicion, or significant European oversight. The AI-driven examination of unfamiliar images and texts was determined to be flawed, according to [3] a recently published study by researchers at KU Leuven and Ghent University.

In 2024, the German [4] Federal Criminal Police Office has indicated that in 48% of all flagged chats were deemed criminally irrelevant. This suggests that nearly half of the data generated by the surveillance system consisted of inconsequential private conversations between individuals who were not involved in any illicit activity. Such a surge of misleading reports has strained investigative resources that could have been directed toward legitimate cases. The Federal Criminal Police Office [5] reported that 99,375 of the 205,728 reports forwarded by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children were deemed not criminally relevant, resulting in an error rate of 48.3%. This figure marks an increase from 2023, when the number of false positives was recorded at 90,950.

Patrick Breyer, [6] who was a Member of the European Parliament, described outcome as [7] historic following his long-standing opposition to Chat Control. “This historic day brings tears of joy! The EU Parliament has buried Chat Control a massive, hard-fought victory for the unprecedented resistance of civil society and citizens! The fact that a single vote tipped the scales against the extremely error-prone text and image search shows: Every single vote in Parliament and every call from concerned citizens counted!,” said Breyer. “We have stopped a broken and illegal system. Once our investigators are no longer drowning in a flood of false and long-known suspicion reports from the US, resources will finally be freed up to hunt down organized abuse rings in a targeted and covert manner.”

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Cyprus tells organisations they must accept digital IDs

Lionel Eddy — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 15:44:21 -0400

The government in Cyprus has issued a reminder to organisations regarding the acceptance of digital documents, which include national ID cards and driving licences stored in the country's official digital identity app, Digital Citizen.

Digital documents are considered to have the same legal validity as their physical counterparts and are to be accepted unconditionally by all organisations, companies, and service providers in Cyprus, the Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy announced [1] as reported by In-Cyprus.

Nicodemus Damianou, who [2] is the Deputy Minister also noted that [3] the Digital Citizen app is now linked to Greece’s Gov.gr Wallet, enabling Cypriot citizens to present their digital IDs and driving licences in Greece, while Greek citizens can do the same in Cyprus. However, this interoperability agreement between the two countries has drawn scrutiny from the Cypriot state Audit Office.

A recent report examining the Digital Citizen project raises concerns that the agreement did not adhere to public procurement procedures. The contract for the Digital Citizen app is valued at €1.7 million, with €1.5 million allocated by Cyprus for the platform's development and an additional €200,000 from Greece for the integration of electronic signatures and identity into its Gov.gr wallet. This integration was awarded to an existing contractor already utilised by the Greek government, rather than being awarded through an open tender.

Both Cyprus and Greece did not provide detailed cost estimates for the project's activities. According to the Audit Office, the implementation costs [4] are now anticipated to exceed the original €1.5 million budget outlined in the contract due to unforeseen expenses. In a recent statement, Deputy Minister Damianou addressed concerns raised by the Audit Office, noting that while procedural issues were identified, no misconduct or legal violations were found.

The Digital Citizen project is a result of intergovernmental collaboration between Cyprus and Greece. The agreement includes contractual safeguards designed to protect public interests and incorporates standard provisions. According to the Ministry, [5] legal experts from both Cyprus and Greece reviewed the contract.The Ministry has indicated that future phases may be managed through an open tender process. The government is evaluating the possibility of enhancing the existing application to comply with [6] the European Digital Identity Wallet framework or creating an independent solution. This is not the first occasion on which the Cypriot Audit Office has expressed concerns regarding the nation’s digital ID initiative.

February data from the Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy [7] reveals that 75 new digital services were developed in 2025, with the Digital Citizen app surpassing 135,000 registered users. Cyprus is also preparing for additional projects in 2026, including the Mobile Smart Citizen App, designed to facilitate communication between users and local authorities while providing access to services from the Cyprus Electricity Authority.

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Somalian government makes digital ID mandatory for travel

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 17:52:32 -0400

Domestic flights in the African nation Somalia will now require passengers to present their biometric ID cards.

The new system was launched at the domestic departure terminal of Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, with Mustafa Duhulow, [1] the Director General of the Immigration and Citizenship Agency, officiating the event, [2] according to Dawan Africa.The International Civil Aviation Organization or ICA reports that a new initiative aims to digitize the internal migration system and monitor the movement of individuals. Duhulow asserts that this initiative aligns with legal frameworks and enhances border and national security. Airport personnel have been directed to assist citizens as they transition to using the biometric national ID.

This initiative is a collaborative effort with [3] the National Identification and Registration Authority or NIRA, the body responsible for issuing biometric ID cards. Somalis traveling between federal states will be required to present these IDs for identity verification and digital data processing. In July 2025, Somalia made [4] national ID cards mandatory for banking transactions. “The regulation is aimed at eliminating fraudulent identity use, curbing money laundering, and ensuring secure access to financial services,” the central bank said. This initiative by [5] the Central Bank of Somalia has the backing of both NIRA and the Somali Bankers Association.

In June, 2025 the Somalian government mandated [6] the national ID as a requirement for acquiring a driver’s licence and other documents from [7] the Transport Ministry. The ministry said in a statement, “No individual will be granted services by the ministry without presenting a valid National ID card.” Somalia is implementing the Personal Identification Secure Comparison and Evaluation System or PISCES, a biometrics system supported by the US. PISCES is designed to enhance Somalia’s national border management capabilities. Somalia claims the aim is to curb human trafficking and prevent irregular migration. Mustafa Duhulow said, “This is not just about technology it’s about protecting our citizens and rebuilding public trust. Thanks to the support of the US government, Somalia is now using one of the world’s most advanced border systems to detect threats, prevent trafficking, and manage migration with dignity and security.”

However, a study from the University of Minnesota, [8] titled Use of Biometric Data to Identify Terrorists: Best Practice or Risky Business? Warns these policies can be misused and lead to government overreach. “While biometric tools have successfully been used for legitimate public interest purposes and have played an important role in criminal justice processes, they have also been employed in connection with gross human rights violations, atrocity crimes, and by oppressive and authoritarian regimes,” said the study.

The study warns about the lack of an explicit human rights-based approach by the International Organization for Migration or IOM. “Some states and international organisations have developed biometric traveller screening systems that they also put at the disposal of other states. For example, the US Personal Identification Secure Comparison and Evaluation System is used in at least 23 countries. While IOM states that it ‘promotes the responsible use of biometrics, effective personal data protection and respect to privacy’ and ‘when processing biometric data, IOM ensures that the data is collected in a lawful and fair manner with the consent of beneficiaries, and that the purpose of the processing is specified and legitimate,’ none of the publicly available documents providing information on MIDAS, consulted for this report, contain any references to human rights.”

In January, 2025, the FBI released a Request for Information [9] to facilitate the ongoing operation and maintenance of the Somalia Automated Biometric Identification System. This initiative, led by multiple federal agencies, claims it aims to enhance Somalia’s criminal justice and counterterrorism capacities through advanced biometric identification technologies. The FBI indicated that the goal is to bolster law enforcement capabilities in Somalia, thereby contributing to regional stability and security through improved biometric identification. “The ability to biometrically identify criminals, including terrorists, is one of the pillars of modern policing. In Somalia, the SPF has been collecting fingerprints from criminals, including terrorists, for many years but lacks the technical ability to complete comparisons to find matches because collected fingerprints are not processed and stored in a way they can be used for identification purposes,” said the FBI.

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