The Global landscape of Digital Identities

The global landscape of digital identity initiatives reflects a concerted effort to enhance secure and interoperable digital identity systems. Key developments in the United States, Asia-Pacific, Singapore, Australia, and Europe demonstrate both unique approaches and common objectives.

While these regional initiatives for now are regional discussions on interoperability and alignment has already started among several of the actors, specifically the EU, the US and Japan.

This would potentially cater for global usability and scope for the solutions.

United States: Executive Order on Cybersecurity

On January 16, 2025, President Joe Biden issued an executive order titled "Executive Order on Strengthening and Promoting Innovation in the Nation’s Cybersecurity.This directive emphasizes the development of a digital identity framework, including a "Yes/No" validation service, to verify specific attributes (e.g., age, citizenship) without disclosing excessive personal information. The initiative aims to bolster privacy and security in digital transactions.

Asia-Pacific: Asia Pacific Digital Identity Consortium (APDI)

On October 18, 2024, Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP) announced the formation of the APDI Consortium. This collaboration among companies in the Asia-Pacific region seeks to establish governance frameworks defining interoperable technologies and operational requirements for digital identities. The goal is to create a trusted digital ID economic zone, ensuring cross-border compatibility and secure data distribution.

Singapore: National Digital Identity (NDI)

Singapore's Government Technology Agency (GovTech) has developed the National Digital Identity (NDI) initiative, featuring platforms like Singpass, Myinfo, and Corppass. Singpass serves as a trusted digital identity, enabling citizens and residents to access government and private sector services securely and conveniently. The system grants individuals control over their personal data, requiring explicit consent before usage.

Australia: Digital ID System

Australia is advancing a national, economy-wide Digital ID System that offers a voluntary, secure, and inclusive method for Australians to verify their identity online. By December 2026, private sector entities will be able to apply to participate within the system, promoting broader adoption across various services. The initiative aims to streamline access to online services while safeguarding personal information.

European Union: European Digital Identity (EUDI) Framework

The European Union's EUDI framework mandates that Member States provide EU Digital Identity (eID) Wallets to citizens within 24 months of adopting Implementing Acts. These wallets enable individuals to identify themselves or confirm personal information for both online and offline public and private services across the EU, emphasizing user control and data privacy.

Comparative Analysis

• Interoperability: Both the APDI and EUDI frameworks focus on cross-border interoperability, facilitating seamless digital identity use across different regions. The U.S. initiative, while primarily domestic, sets a foundation that could align with international standards.
• User Control and Privacy: Singapore's NDI and Australia's Digital ID System prioritize user consent and data protection, aligning with the EUDI's emphasis on user control over personal data. The U.S. "Yes/No" validation service similarly aims to verify attributes without excessive data disclosure.
• Implementation Timelines: The EUDI framework has a defined timeline for member states to provide eID Wallets. Australia's system plans private sector participation by December 2026. Singapore's NDI is already operational, while the U.S. initiative is in the developmental stage following the recent executive order.

In summary, these initiatives reflect a global trend toward establishing secure, user-centric digital identity systems. While tailored to regional contexts, they share common goals of enhancing security, ensuring interoperability, and empowering individuals with control over their personal data.