VOTING is taking place in Switzerland to decide whether to introduce electronic identity cards.
It is the second nationwide ballot on the issue, after voters rejected the idea in 2021 over concerns about data protection and unease that the proposed system would largely be run by private companies.
Under the revised proposal, the new system would remain entirely optional and in public hands, with the data on the electronic IDs stored on users’ smartphones rather than centrally.
It comes as the UK government this week announced plans to introduce its own digital ID as part of efforts to curb the number of illegal migrants living and working in the country.
The proposed British digital ID would have fewer intended uses, but has still raised concerns about privacy and data security.
Switzerland’s plan has already been approved by both its houses of Parliament, and the Swiss government recommends a “yes” vote.
Citizens can still choose to rely on a physical national identity card, which has been standard in Switzerland for decades.
To ease privacy concerns, a particular authority seeking informations on a person – such as proof of age or nationality, for example – will only be able to check for those specific details.
Supporters say the system will make life much easier for everyone, allowing a range of bureaucratic procedures – from getting a telephone contract to proving you’re old enough to buy a bottle of wine – to happen quickly online.
*BBC*
