Bosnia and Herzegovina Steps Up Digital Identity Verification Efforts

Modernizing the Country’s Digital Infrastructure

The Identity and Data Exchange Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina (IDDEEA) has made significant strides in modernizing the country’s digital infrastructure, with a focus on secure and accessible digital identities for its citizens. As part of broader European Union directives aimed at bolstering digital infrastructures across member states, IDDEEA has increased issuance of digital identity documents, wallets, and remote electronic signatures.

Director’s Vision

According to Almir Badnjević, director of IDDEEA, the agency is committed to transforming Bosnia and Herzegovina’s digital landscape by streamlining administrative processes and ensuring data protection standards are met in line with EU regulations. IDDEEA has seen a notable increase in the issuance of digital identity documents and wallets, marking an upturn in accessibility and convenience for individuals navigating digital services.

Benefits for Citizens

Citizens now benefit from streamlined access to various government services, facilitated by digital identity software implemented by IDDEEA. Additionally, IDDEEA’s digital signatures are certified according to the eIDAS regulation. The agency is currently focused on processing primarily new identity cards and passports for citizens, with a projected total of:

• 712,429 ID cards
• 431,455 travel documents expected to be completed by the end of 2024.

Future Plans

In line with its vision for enhanced digital services, IDDEEA plans to further advance its digital identity initiatives, with upcoming projects aimed at integrating biometric data and enhancing the usability of digital wallets. The agency’s efforts are also complemented by Bosnia and Herzegovina’s participation in the European Union’s Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL), which grants access to a 7.5 billion euro initiative aimed at advancing digitalization.

Enhanced Digital Services for Citizens

As Bosnia and Herzegovina continues to strengthen its digital identity verification capabilities, citizens can expect increased convenience and accessibility when navigating government services, while also benefiting from enhanced data protection standards and streamlined administrative processes.