Across the globe, 2020 was a year of disruption, uncertainty, and tragedy. The COVID-19 pandemic reversed critical progress in reducing poverty and exacerbated inequalities. Many countries have also struggled to deliver assistance to the most affected people and maintain continuity in critical services because of distancing and lockdowns. This situation has acutely highlighted the importance of inclusive and trusted digital ID systems and the broader digital infrastructure they enable.

Addressing these issues and more, the World Bank Identification for Development Initiative (ID4D) released its 2020 Annual Report. Among other things, the report shows the significant impact ID4D achieved in 2020 through their technical and financial support to client countries. It also shows the depth and breadth of knowledge generated and global action catalyzed towards closing the identification coverage gap and enhancing the quality and governance of digital ID and civil registration systems around the world.

Recently, the World Bank has also published two blogs: Good digital ID needs great data protection and Realizing the “transformational trilogy” of social protection delivery in the Philippines.