What Is the
IDENTITY DAY CAMPAIGN?
The Identity Day (ID Day) Campaign is the ongoing Call for government authorities in all countries around the world to officially recognize
16 September as Identity Day.
WHY IDENTITY DAY?
Having proof of one’s identity is a fundamental right, and a practical necessity for the human experience, especially in the context of digital transformation of society. Very few social constructs play as foundational a role in our lives as personal identity, yet the world does not commemorate it. Through a commemorative day we hope to promote a responsible narrative about the most important human asset - our identity.
WHY 16 SEPT?
The choice of the date 16 September (16.9) is highly symbolic. It is in commemoration of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 16.9 which calls for the provision of legal identity for all by 2030, including birth registration.
WHAT DO WE COMMEMORATE ON ID DAY?
Identity Day is a moment for us to pause and reflect on three (3) fundamentals in identity:
INCLUSION
ID Day sensitizes us to the plight of those who lack proof of identity (estimated at 1 billion with about half in Africa) and reaffirms our commitment to achieving total inclusion, so that no one is left behind.
PROTECTION
ID Day is a reminder, for those who have proof of identity, to verify that their identity is secured against theft and their privacy is protected. It reaffirms that protecting our most valuable asset is an ongoing concern.
EMPOWERMENT
It is also an opportunity for those who have proof of identity, to check if they are reaping the highest returns on their identity by asking how well it can empower them and simplify their daily lives. It is the ideal occasion to call on service providers to adopt identity-enabled service delivery.
BACKGROUND
Many important issues on the international development and human rights agenda have an observance day. For example, 10 December is Human Rights Day, while 20th of June is Refugee Day. It is time for identity to have a day of observance. International days of observance are an effective and practical way to raise awareness and generate momentum around an issue.
According to the UN "United Nations observances contribute to the achievement of the purposes of the UN Charter and promote awareness of and action on important political, social, cultural, humanitarian or human rights issues. They provide a useful means for the promotion of international and national action and stimulate interest in United Nations activities and programmes."
Over 160 international organizations - development agencies and non-commercial entities - have endorsed the Call for Identity Day as Coalition Partners.
Who else is supporing the Call?
JOIN THE COALITION
If you are a decision maker at your institution or can influence the leadership of your institution, please consider convincing your organization to join the coalition partners. It does not imply any legal or financial commitment but it demonstrates that your institution endorses this initiative.