Digital Identity Verification Project to Benefit Hondurans
A major digital identity verification project aimed at strengthening Honduras’ national civil registry and identification ecosystem has received a significant boost from the World Bank. The international financial institution has approved a $40 million loan to support the automation of birth registration processes, provide identification documents for millions of children and adolescents, and improve identity verification services across the country.
Project Overview
The Strengthening Honduras’ National Civil Registry and Identification Ecosystem project is set to be implemented by the National Registry of Persons (RNP) over the next three-and-a-half years. The project will enable Hondurans to access civil registry and identification services more easily, using a range of channels including online platforms, mobile apps, and in-person assistance.
Key Benefits
- Improved access to essential services: The project will help ensure that all Hondurans have access to education, healthcare, and financial services by providing a secure and efficient way for citizens to verify their identities.
- Reduced risk of child trafficking: Providing identification documents will reduce the risk of children falling victim to trafficking and being trafficked along migration routes.
- Enhanced data protection: The project will establish a security operations center to improve data protection and cyber incident detection, response, and prevention capabilities.
Implementation Plan
The project is expected to benefit millions of children living in rural areas, Afro-Hondurans, Indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and those living in remote areas vulnerable to climate impacts. The implementation plan includes:
- Automation of 50 administrative procedures: Making it easier for citizens to renew or replace identification documents, correct registration entries, and obtain single status certificates.
- Security operations center: Improving data protection and cyber incident detection, response, and prevention capabilities.
- Resilience efforts: Ensuring continuity of operations in the event of extreme weather events such as hurricanes and tropical storms.
Quotes
“We are committed to ensuring that all Hondurans have access to essential services… This project will help us achieve this goal by providing a secure and efficient way for citizens to verify their identities.” - Rixi Moncada, Honduras’ Finance Minister
“By strengthening our civil registry and identity verification systems, we can help prevent these crimes and ensure that all Hondurans have access to their rights.” - Kinnon Scott, World Bank Resident Representative in Honduras