An astounding 850 million people worldwide wander through life without any official form of identity. ID Day, launched by ID4Africa in 2018, is not just another tick on the calendar. It is according to Thales a clarion call. It raises awareness of the challenges these 'invisible' millions face and underlines the urgency to bring them into the fold.

Thales is deeply committed to addressing this issue and upholds the idea of it being a collective effort, for which the company is a contributing force.

Across the globe, Thales' expertise plays a pivotal role in shaping trusted ID systems. With around 300 identity programmes worldwide relying on its secured, sustainable, and user-centric solutions, numerous nations recognise and trust the company's capabilities.

ID Day

All of our identities need protection from theft and misuse. International Identity Day is a stern reminder. It's a nudge, a gentle push to have an identity and ensure it's fortified against breaches.Thales recognises the importance of the signal. Its technological innovations are tailored to ensure that an individual's most personal asset—the  identity—is guarded with the utmost precision. Thales has been at the forefront of the secure Identity documents innovation, establishing robust partnerships with government forensic experts globally.

The company's approach is collaborative, and it regularly opens its R&D labs to Government Forensic Experts for shared insights and discussions on ongoing innovations. Thales' track record reflects its expertise, with milestones like introducing polycarbonate materials in identity documents and producing unique identification cards for various countries.

Maximising the power of identity

Having an identity without tapping into its full potential is like owning a key to a treasure chest but never unlocking it.

Identity schemes should be inclusive; there must be no barriers to access and use. Where citizens can prove their identity, populations are empowered. Lives are improved through better access to various services and social benefits, such as education and health. This can be done through a physical document, online verification services or a digital wallet.

With the rapid strides in digitisation, the scope of what one's identity can accomplish is expanding.

The Digital ID Wallet, a pioneering solution, seamlessly digitalises an individual's multiple identity credentials onto their smartphone. It offers unparalleled convenience and ease of access and is designed to complement physical ID cards. The wallet acts as a companion to tangible proof of identity, ensuring that users have multiple avenues to validate and confirm their identity. This wallet provides centralised and secure storage for these credentials and offers unparalleled ease of use for online and offline identity verifications.

Built with rigorous security measures, it ensures that users have full control over their data, deciding precisely when and with whom to share it. It's not just about having an identity; it's about harnessing its full potential in the digital age.

In conclusion, when we mark International Identity Day, it's essential to understand its significance and recognise the relentless efforts, innovations, and commitments of organisations like Thales. Through this type of contribution across the pillars of inclusion, protection, and utility, Thales and companies like them, aim to make the world not just technologically advanced but also inclusive, secure, and convenient for all.