Bhutan Joins Global Acceptance Network as First National Digital ID Program
The Kingdom of Bhutan has become the first national program worldwide to join the Global Acceptance Network, a cross-sector initiative aimed at enhancing the trust and interoperability of digital identities. The membership enables Bhutan to integrate its National Digital Identity system with global digital identity frameworks, ensuring that Bhutanese citizens can utilize their digital credentials internationally. The GAN was soft-launched recently and includes notable members such as Accenture and NTT Digital.
The Kingdom of Bhutan has made a significant advancement in the realm of digital identity by becoming the first national program globally to join the Global Acceptance Network (GAN), which is overseen by a dedicated foundation. The GAN is a pioneering, cross-sector initiative aimed at enhancing the availability, trustworthiness, and interoperability of verifiable data. This network was officially soft-launched on September 17, 2023, with over 30 founding member organizations participating. Bhutan’s National Digital Identity (NDI) system, launched earlier in 2023, is founded on the principles of self-sovereign identity (SSI), and the nation has been navigating the complexities of implementing a decentralized identity on a national level. The formal announcement of Bhutan’s membership in the GAN occurred during the recent Bhutan Innovation Forum. By joining the GAN as an ecosystem member, Bhutan positions itself to harmonize its NDI with various existing digital identity systems and trust ecosystems, thus facilitating global acceptance of Bhutanese digital credentials. Jigme Tenzing, the secretary of Bhutan’s government technology agency, underscored the significance of this membership by stating, “By joining the Global Acceptance Network, Bhutan is taking the next step towards ensuring our digital credentials are not only secure within our borders but trusted globally. Our vision is to empower every Bhutanese citizen with control over their own data, while enabling seamless, verifiable exchanges with the rest of the world. GAN provides the interoperable trust network we need to build this truly interconnected and trusted digital future.” The GAN Foundation’s platinum members include notable organizations such as Accenture, NTT Digital, and Gen, while other ecosystem members encompass Trinsic and Yoti. Furthermore, organizations like Interac, cheqd, Danube Tech, and GLEIF are also actively involved in the network. Consequently, the GAN has established ambassadors, including Yodahe Zemichael, the Ethiopian National ID Executive Director, alongside representatives from both public and private sectors.
Digital identity programs are increasingly vital as societies transition towards digital services, making it essential for individuals to possess secure methods of proving their identity online. Bhutan’s initiative with the National Digital Identity (NDI) highlights its commitment to modernize its digital landscape while ensuring that citizens maintain control over their personal data. The GAN serves as a collaborative framework that enhances trust and interoperability among various digital identity systems worldwide, which is crucial for a seamless global digital ecosystem.
In conclusion, Bhutan’s membership in the Global Acceptance Network represents a pivotal development in the global approach to digital identity management. The nation’s innovative National Digital Identity system not only aims to secure and empower its citizens but also strives to create a trusted and interoperable digital identity environment on a global scale. This endeavor aligns with Bhutan’s vision of fostering a connected digital future that prioritizes individual data sovereignty and international recognition of digital credentials.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
