Publication

Formal identification is a prerequisite for development in the modern world. A lack of identification limits a person's ability to interact with the state - or with private entities such as banks - and reduces access to basic rights and services. Under-documentation is pervasive in the developing world. This paper surveys 160 cases where biometric identification has been used for economic, political, and social purposes in developing countries. The results suggest that biometric identification has been implemented with varying degrees of success. In concluding, the authors suggest that identification should be considered as an integral component of development policy.