Electronic identification of citizens: comparing perspectives and approaches

Abstract

The paper presents preliminary results of a first phase of the study investigating the socio-political dimension of electronic identification (e-ID) of citizens in the post-Soviet -- mostly Eurasian -- region. Empirical data obtained with the help of the virtual research methods reveal, in particular, a potential connection between the existing intra-regional migration patterns with Russia's plans to deploy its national e-ID system. The way it is eventually implemented will have significant policy implications for other countries as well. It is important that decision-makers are aware of such implications and e-ID policies take proper account of the social impacts of particular e-government technologies to avoid new 'digital divides' between countries, citizens and non-citizens.