Bhutan, a small country located in the eastern Himalayas, has implemented a groundbreaking self-sovereign national digital ID system for its citizens. Developed by Druk Holding and Investments, the commercial and investment arm of the Bhutanese government, this innovative system aims to pave the way for the complete digitization of the country’s services.
The CEO of Druk Holding and Investments, Ujjwal Deep Dahal, believes that the national digital ID will act as the fundamental platform for online services in Bhutan. This includes various sectors such as banking, healthcare, taxation, and education. Dahal emphasized the potential of the system, stating that it provides “100 per cent assurance” for the safe and secure delivery of these services.
What sets Bhutan’s strategy apart is its use of blockchain technology in the creation of the national digital ID. With this approach, each citizen has full control over their digital identity, ensuring self-sovereignty and guaranteeing privacy. This level of control is similar to how cryptocurrencies operate, with individuals having the power to decide how their identity is utilized or exposed.
The national digital ID system has already received royal approval, with the crown prince of Bhutan, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, being the first to sign up. Over the next year, the deployment of the system is expected to cover the entire Bhutanese population, positioning Bhutan as a leader in the field of digital identity.
The onboarding process for the national digital ID is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. Citizens can simply download an app and provide their details, selfie, and national ID card. Through AI algorithms, the system verifies the information and issues a verified credential in a matter of seconds, eliminating the need for physical registration booths.
Bhutan’s implementation of a self-sovereign national digital ID exemplifies its commitment to embracing technological innovation and showcases that creativity knows no boundaries. By employing blockchain technology and granting individuals control over their digital identities, Bhutan is paving the way for a more secure and efficient digital future.
Definitions:
– Blockchain technology: A decentralized and secure digital ledger that records transactions across multiple computers.
– Self-sovereign identity: A system that allows individuals to have full ownership and control over their digital identities.
– Digitization: The process of converting analog information into digital form.
Source: Bhutan Live