Over the last few years, national identification card programs have been launched in many countries around the world and currently, receiving a national identification card containing a unique number and biometric identity profile is required in more than 100 nations.
In most cases the purpose for issuing these national identification cards is:
--- Growing security problems around the world leading to more frequent requests for proof of identity.
--- Bridging the ‘identity gap’ because formal identity is a prerequisite for development.
--- Increased efficiency in disbursements through identity verification of beneficiaries and increased transparency in the transfer process.