Sri Lanka has embarked on an ambitious digital transformation project with the introduction of the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity (SL-UDI) programme. This initiative aims to replace the country’s traditional physical identification card system with a digital ID infrastructure, modernising identity verification and access to services for its citizens.

On 13 January 2025, DREWSEN SPEZIALPAPIERE, a German leader in the production of specialty and security papers, announced the acquisition of UK-based PORTALS PAPER Ltd, a well-known producer of high-security papers for passports and identity documents. This union merges the complementary strengths of two companies with rich traditions in secure papermaking, marking a significant development in the field of identity and counterfeit protection.

In its final days, the Biden administration is preparing an executive order that emphasises the use of digital identity technologies, such as mobile driving licences (mDLs), to enhance identity verification for public benefit programmes.