Ethnic data linkage in digital IDs raises discrimination concerns, say civil societies.
- Organisations warn digital IDs may deepen social divides and discrimination.
- Polls show significant fear among minorities regarding digital ID’s impact on liberties.
- Linking ethnic data with digital footprints seen as a primary concern.
- Calls for government transparency and trust-building in digital initiatives.
Civil society organisations have raised alarms about the potential discriminatory risks associated with the government’s digital ID rollout. They caution that linking ethnic data to individuals’ digital identities could lead to bias, particularly against people of colour. These concerns are voiced by groups such as Careful Industries, the Open Rights Group, and Amnesty International, who argue that without transparency, the deployment of digital IDs could exacerbate social inequality.
Research indicates significant apprehension among minority communities concerning the implications of digital IDs on civil liberties. A survey conducted by Survation revealed that 60% of black participants and two-thirds of Asian participants expressed fears that digital ID systems might adversely affect their civil rights. The resistance is rooted in worries about privacy and the potential misuse of ethnic data.
One focal point of concern is the integration of ethnic data within digital ID frameworks, which could inadvertently lead to indirect discrimination, as highlighted by Sara Alsherif from the Open Rights Group. She points out that this integration could facilitate the tracking of migrants and vulnerable groups across various government sectors, potentially resulting in the denial of services, benefits, or even leading to prosecution.
Rachel Coldicutt, from Careful Industries, emphasises the need for the government to prioritise rebuilding public trust in its digital initiatives. Her statement underscores the necessity for the government to establish a robust, equitable digital society, by ensuring openness and accountability in its technology policies.
The government’s effort to transition to digital IDs from traditional identification systems involves navigating these complex issues. While companies such as Yoti, TrustID, and OneID are developing digital ID solutions, the call for transparent and non-discriminatory practices in their implementation remains paramount.
Ensuring equitable access and preventing discrimination must guide the digital ID rollout.
