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Identity Cards in Canada |
National ID Cards – An International Perspective
How are other countries handling this issue?
In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks, several countries are considering national
identity cards, both for internal security reasons and to make it easier for their citizens
to travel abroad. However, other countries have rejected the concept, seeing it as a
threat to an individual’s right to privacy. Here are examples of how this issue is playing
out in the international arena.
Asia
Hong Kong - In 2003, Hong Kong will implement a “Smart Identity Card.”
The card contains an embedded microchip that holds the name, birth date, and photographs
of the cardholder, as well as both thumbprints. The card will be used for immigration
and travel. It is expected to replace current identification documents and is mandatory.
Malaysia - Since 1999, Malaysia has gradually phased in the “MyKad”
- a mandatory, multi-purpose smart card that functions as an identification card, driver’s
license, passport, health card, and even an ATM bankcard. Biometric information on the
card includes both thumbprints. The main complaint from Malaysians centers on problems
when the card is lost – since all their ID is contained in the one card, it is difficult
to replace.
Australia - In 1986, due to rising concerns over tax evasion and illegal
immigration, the government introduced legislation creating the “Australia Card.” The
mandatory card would contain a photograph, unique ID number, and a signature. Australians
would need the card to travel, obtain health services, or open a bank account. The government
was ultimately abandoned the concept after massive public opposition.
Europe
Britain - In July 2002, the British government unveiled plans to implement
mandatory identity cards, called “Entitlement Cards,” for everything from obtaining
employment to registering for social services. Like other countries, the government
wants the cards to stem illegal immigration and curb identity fraud in addition to fighting
terrorism. Identifiers on the card would include a photograph and fingerprints. Although
the cards would be mandatory, it’s unclear whether British citizens would need to carry
them at all times. The issue is still being debated.
Finland – Finland introduced electronic national ID cards in 1999.
The card contains a unique identifying number and a signature but very little personal
information and no biometric data. It is used for online banking, and travel throughout
Europe. Use of the card is voluntary.
Italy - Italy has implemented the “carta d’identita”. Although the
card is not mandatory, citizens are encouraged to carry and use it as identification,
both abroad and at home. The card includes a photo, tax number, and other data, but
does not contain biometric data.
North America
United States - In the aftermath of the September 11th attacks, the
United States considered implementing national ID cards. A poll taken shortly after
the September 11th attacks showed that sixty-eight percent of Americans favored a national
identity card “to bolster anti-terrorism concerns.” Nonetheless, President Bush rejected
the idea, due to concerns over privacy rights and possible Constitutional issues. Instead,
the Patriot Act concentrates on better identification of illegal aliens, and improving
visa standards to screen persons once they enter the country (three of the terrorists
involved in the September 11th attacks had overstayed their visas, but were not ordered
to leave).
However, Congress is considering another option. The “Driver’s License Modernization
Act of 2002” was introduced in the Spring 2002 session of Congress by Virginia Senator
James Moran. If passed, the Act would require States to standardize their driver’s licenses
within five years to include biometric identifiers. Critics argue that this is simply
bringing in a national identification system through the back door.
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