In a significant leap towards modernizing identity verification processes, the Pirate Party’s representatives recently revealed their groundbreaking project during a press conference held on Tuesday. The initiative, known as eDocuments, is set to revolutionize how individuals confirm their identity, replacing traditional plastic identification cards with a cutting-edge mobile application on smartphones. This novel approach empowers users to selectively share personal data during verification processes, thereby enhancing both privacy and security. While the official launch is scheduled for early next year, it’s important to note that eDocuments will not be valid for international use initially.

The project, which has garnered widespread interest, has been met with enthusiasm from Jakub Michálek, the leader of the Pirate MPs, who described eDocuments as a “highly promising endeavor” slated for introduction in January 2024.

Ivan Bartos, Minister for Regional Development and Digitalisation, and Chairman of the Pirates, outlined the key features of eDocuments, emphasizing its user-friendly nature as a “standard mobile application” that can be easily downloaded, registered, and utilized by citizens.

One of the primary advantages of eDocuments is the ability to selectively disclose information during identity verification. For instance, when confirming one’s age at a restaurant, only proof of legal adulthood is required, without revealing sensitive information such as residence or date of birth. This innovative approach not only streamlines processes but also safeguards personal data.

Enhanced security is another standout feature of eDocuments. The application offers various biometric authentication options, including fingerprints and facial recognition, alongside the option to set a PIN for an additional layer of protection. In case of a lost or stolen phone, deactivating the eDocument is a straightforward process, providing a significant security advantage over traditional plastic ID cards.

Importantly, it’s worth noting that traditional ID cards will not be phased out; instead, eDocuments will serve as an alternative means of identification. Traditional ID cards remain essential, especially for international travel, where the eDocuments application will not be accepted initially.

The eWallet, as part of the eDocuments ecosystem, is expected to be introduced within the European Union and recognized in all member states, though full recognition across the EU is anticipated to take several years. Bartos emphasized the Pirates’ commitment to making this transition to the European standard as seamless as possible.

Starting from January, select central administrative authorities, including the Czech Telecommunications Office, will begin accepting eDocuments, with the police following suit. In addition to government acceptance, private sector entities have also expressed interest in adopting this innovative service.

The eDocuments project will undergo its initial reading by Members of Parliament during the regular session of the Chamber of Deputies this week, marking a crucial step towards its realization. The Pirate Party’s groundbreaking initiative is set to redefine how individuals verify their identity and promises to shape the future of secure, streamlined identification processes.

Article by Prague Forum