The Nordic and Baltic region represents some of the most digitally advanced societies in the world. An enabling element for this is the availability and vast adoption of electronic identity (eID) means, both among citizens and service providers. A new report from the Nordic-Baltic eID collaboration (NOBID) describes how collaboration on digital identity can revolutionize access to public and private services across borders in Europe.
With ambitions to create a seamless digital infrastructure, the region is collectively facing digital challenges and opportunities. The report, which is the result of extensive analysis and collaboration between experts from the Nordic and Baltic countries, sheds light on the status of digital identity and identity matching across borders. Through close collaboration, common challenges and solutions have been identified that can strengthen the region's position as a digital front runner.
Identity matching is crucial to achieve meaningful cross-border use of electronic IDs, and to enable smooth mobility across borders in the Nordic-Baltic region. This report offers an analysis of current solutions in the region and points towards future opportunities for further digital integration of the Nordic-Baltic region. One of the main conclusions in the report is the need for better identity matching to handle challenges with cross-border digital identity. This includes, among other things, the exchange of e-prescriptions and the recognition of professional qualifications, both of which are essential for mobility in the labor market and public services.
With support from the consulting companies Civitta and SK ID Solutions, and thanks to the efforts of the region's experts, NOBID aims to continue to promote an integrated and sustainable digital future for the Nordic and Baltic residents. The report also highlights the importance of updating and harmonizing the eIDAS regulations (electronic Identification, Authentication and trust Services), which govern electronic identification and trust services in the EU. An updated regulation will be able to strengthen trust in and the use of electronic identities across national borders.
The consulting companies recommend implementing eIDASNode+ in all Nordic and Baltic countries as a common approach.
Full report is available here.
Declaration from the Nordic and Baltic ministers of digitalisation on cross-border identity matching in the region is available here.
