World Bank Launches Global Initiative to Advance Inclusive and Trusted Digital Identity Systems
Category:
e-IDV Financial Inclusion Global
Source: World Bank Group - Identification for Development (ID4D) Initiative
Published: 2026
The World Bank Group’s Identification for Development (ID4D) Initiative is helping countries develop inclusive, trusted, and secure identity systems that enable people to access essential services, economic opportunities, and participate in increasingly digital societies.
The initiative brings together global expertise, research, financing, and partnerships to support the design and implementation of modern identification ecosystems, including digital identity solutions and civil registration systems. ID4D focuses on ensuring identity systems are accessible, reliable, privacy-conscious, and aligned with international best practices.
ID4D’s work is built around three key areas:
Knowledge & Research
Developing global insights, guidance, and tools to support the creation of e/ective and sustainable identity systems.
Global Standards & Collaboration
Promoting best practices, technical standards, and international cooperation to improve digital identity adoption.
Country Implementation Support
Providing technical assistance and support to governments and regions as they design and implement trusted identity ecosystems.
Key focus areas include:
- Building inclusive and trusted digital identity infrastructure
- Supporting secure online authentication and identity verification
- Improving access to financial services and digital economies
- Promoting privacy, data protection, and responsible identity management
- Helping governments and organisations develop interoperable identity frameworks
For banks, fintechs, payment providers, accountancy firms, government organisations, and e-IDV solution providers, the ID4D initiative highlights the growing importance of trusted identity verification as a foundation for secure digital onboarding, fraud prevention, financial inclusion, and regulatory compliance.
Read the full initiative:
Additional resources:
World Bank ID4D Practitioner’s Guide