This study aimed to understand how eID is being rolled out in smaller societies and the barriers to and solutions for doing so in an inclusive manner. Through in-depth fieldwork in the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Åland involving 50 interviewees, the report identified differences in the challenges the three societies are facing and in possible solutions for a more inclusive eID rollout. The participants represented various public and private institutions that are either working on rollout of eIDs systems or with population groups that are at risk of being excluded from the digital transformation due to a range of socioeconomic and physical factors.
The data from this study revealed several context-specific barriers, underlining the critical importance of engaging with local stakeholders and thoroughly understanding the needs, concerns and digital capabilities of the respective populations. Such bottom-up development serves to ensure that implementation of eID systems benefits all groups in society. These considerations and consultations should be prioritised at the outset of the design and implementation process rather than being treated as an afterthought. The findings of this report have shown that delayed adaptation can negatively impact individuals’ livelihoods, especially as eIDs become essential for accessing public support systems.
The following key takeaways summarise what can be drawn from this study and link these insights to policy recommendations aimed at ensuring a more inclusive rollout of eID solutions in the Nordic-Baltic region:
National differences: The Faroe Islands, Greenland and Åland are at very different stages in the eID rollout, each with a unique and context-specific set of challenges and potential solutions. The approaches taken reflect the respective political ties, legacies and priorities.
No one-size-fits-all solution: It can be helpful to gain international inspiration and collaborate with other countries. However, it is essential to consider the national, regional and local context when developing and implementing the eID. This requires engagement with relevant local stakeholders and understanding the needs, concerns and digital capabilities of the population and the organisations in question.
Digital inclusion as a starting point: Digital inclusion should not be an afterthought but rather incorporated into the planning process of the eID rollout. However, different societies will have different opportunities for the inclusive rollout of eID depending on factors such as their mandate, digital maturity, geography, economic capacities and demographic composition.
User involvement: When involving local stakeholders in the development and implementation process, it is essential to include NGO/civil society actors to ensure that the voices of otherwise underrepresented groups – such as homeless individuals – are heard.
Analogue options: Analogue options should remain available as long as there are population groups that struggle to access and effectively use digital services and devices due to factors including a lack of skills and access to the necessary hardware or software.
Trust in the public sector: Trust in the public sector is a crucial element for the successful rollout of eIDs and can be fostered through transparency.
Accessibility: It is important to ensure that eIDs are accessible across a range of devices, in languages that are relevant and readily understandable to the users, and compliant with web accessibility guidelines and standards.
Inclusive registration standards: Registration requirements should be designed to take account of the circumstances of a range of population groups, including immigrants, to ensure that public information and services are accessible to all.
Physical help: In-person, physical help should be widely available, aligned with the needs of different population groups and easily accessible irrespective of location. Information on where such help is available should be easy to find.
Responsibility: It should be ensured that public institutions and related entities clearly understand their respective roles in the eID rollout. Close collaboration and an efficient division of tasks are particularly beneficial in smaller societies.
Data security and privacy: Measures should be taken to ensure that personal data are protected to the highest possible standards. In addition, digital fraud, exploitation of digital illiteracy and coercive digital control in close relationships should be addressed through awareness campaigns and appropriate support services.
Inclusive foundations: Ongoing efforts should be made to meet the basic prerequisites of inclusive eID usage, including affordable and stable internet connectivity, as well as high digital literacy among all segments of the population, supported by measures including training programmes.
Motivation for adoption: Ensuring that the use of eIDs simplifies everyday tasks in remote areas (e.g. by reducing the need for frequent travel for administrative purposes) and effectively communicating these advantages can support and facilitate the rollout and adaptation of eIDs.