Digital Identity Verification in Bangladesh: A Leap Forward
Bangladesh is making significant strides in digital transformation, with a focus on enhancing citizen services and promoting inclusive growth. One of the key initiatives aimed at streamlining government services is the introduction of digital identity verification.
Pilot Digital Health Certificate Project
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) plans to roll out a pilot digital health card project from January next year. This initiative aims to improve patient care and reduce administrative burdens by:
- Linking individual national IDs or birth certificates to create unique digital profiles for every patient
- Enabling streamlined management of medical appointments, medical history, and prescribed tests
The registration process will be available both online and offline, allowing private sector health facilities to connect to the central system using their own software.
Digital Birth Certificate Programs in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has launched its digital birth certificate program on a limited basis, with plans to extend issuance to other districts. This initiative is part of the government’s plan to establish a seamless birth registration system, enabling information-sharing among state institutions using a national population registry.
Digital ID Enrollment in Zambia
Over one million citizens have been enrolled for digital IDs as part of the Integrated National Registration Information System (INRIS). The project aims to issue digital IDs to at least 10 million Zambians in the next decade, led by President Hakainde Hichelema.
Enhancements to Digital Registration Platform in Philippines
The Philippines has introduced new features on its Online Registration and Update Systems (Orus), including:
- A Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- The ability to access a digital TIN ID
- Serving as a reference for taxpayers’ transactions with government agencies, institutions, and other relying parties
Digital Identity Verification: A Leap Forward
These initiatives demonstrate Bangladesh’s commitment to promoting digital identity verification and streamlining citizen services. As the country continues to advance its digital transformation plans, it is likely to follow in the footsteps of Sri Lanka and Zambia in implementing similar programs.
By investing in digital identity verification, these countries aim to:
- Promote inclusive growth
- Reduce administrative burdens
- Enhance citizen services
- Contribute to a more efficient and effective governance system
- Promote sustainable development and improve the lives of citizens