Background and Rationale: 

Unique identification numbers (UIDs) are often implemented in modern civil registration and identity management systems. They enable accurate identification of individuals across their life course and across administrative systems, supporting efficient service delivery, inclusive governance, and high-quality statistics. 
 
UIDs can support linking data across health, education, and social protection systems, and work as a building block for building robust administrative registers. However, their implementation also raises concerns around privacy, data protection, exclusion, and scope creep—especially for vulnerable populations. 
 
This Stats Café will explore the role of UIDs in civil registration systems, their applications in governance and statistics, and the principles for designing inclusive and secure identifier systems. It will draw on a recent report developed by UNICEF and ESCAP. 

Objectives: 

• Introduce the concept and types of unique identification numbers and their relevance to CRVS and identity management systems. 

• Discuss the benefits of UIDs for governance, service delivery, and statistical production. 

• Highlight risks and challenges associated with UIDs, including privacy, data security, and exclusion. 

• Share country experiences and good practices in designing and implementing inclusive identifier systems. 

More information is at this link.