Bhutan has become the first country to join the Global Acceptance Network with its National Digital Identity program. This initiative aims to enhance the trustworthiness and interoperability of digital identities worldwide, allowing Bhutanese citizens to securely use their digital credentials globally. Jigme Tenzing, Secretary of Bhutan’s government technology agency, highlights the importance of this step for data control and international exchanges.
The Kingdom of Bhutan has made a significant advancement by becoming the first nation in the world to integrate its National Digital Identity (NDI) program into the Global Acceptance Network (GAN), a dedicated initiative aimed at enhancing the accessibility and trustworthiness of verifiable digital data. The GAN, which promotes the interoperability of identity systems across various sectors, was officially soft-launched on September 17, featuring over thirty founding member organizations. Bhutan’s innovative NDI system, based on the principles of self-sovereign identity (SSI), has been operating since its launch in 2023, addressing the practical challenges associated with implementing decentralized identity at a national level. At the recent Bhutan Innovation Forum, the country announced its integration into the GAN, allowing Bhutan to position itself as an ecosystem member. This membership will facilitate the seamless interaction of its digital identity system with other trusted digital identity platforms globally. Jigme Tenzing, the Secretary of Bhutan’s government technology agency, emphasized the importance 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.” Prominent entities among the platinum members of the GAN Foundation include Accenture, NTT Digital, and Gen, with additional ecosystem participants such as Trinsic and Yoti. The GAN also boasts notable Ambassadors, including Yodahe Zemichael, the Executive Director of the Ethiopia National ID, among others from diverse sectors.
Digital identity programs play a crucial role in enhancing personal security, access to services, and trust within digital interactions. The establishment of a national digital identity framework is increasingly recognized as essential for broad international engagement and technological interoperability. Bhutan’s initiative exemplifies a nation’s commitment to modernizing its identity verification processes while ensuring that its citizens retain control over their personal data. The Global Acceptance Network aims to create an extensive framework for the safe and reliable exchange of digital identities across borders, thus fostering a more interconnected world.
In conclusion, Bhutan’s pioneering move to integrate its National Digital Identity program with the Global Acceptance Network signifies a vital step towards enhancing the security and interoperability of digital credentials on a global scale. By empowering its citizens and facilitating trusted international exchanges, Bhutan continues to exemplify innovation in digital identity management. This initiative not only advances Bhutan’s digital landscape but also promotes broader discussions on the role of self-sovereign identity in a digitally interconnected future.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
