Readiness for the introduction of biometric documents in Belarus was discussed at a meeting with Lukashenko

The readiness to introduce biometric documents in Belarus was discussed today at a meeting with the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, reports BELTA correspondent.

"Work in this direction has been ongoing for a long time. Now the government and officials inform that everything is ready: information systems have been formed, the necessary equipment has been purchased, and explanatory work has been carried out with the population. Identification cards and new passports can be issued as early as tomorrow. It is only necessary to create the necessary legal regulation by signing the relevant decree," said the head of state.

The President noted that, as he is informed, the introduction of biometric documents will spur the development of electronic services, reduce the time for carrying out a number of procedures, and increase protection against forgery. "The fact that we are pushing the development of electronic services is good. As for increasing protection against forgery, I have serious doubts, based on recent events," the Belarusian leader remarked.

"Therefore, for certain reasons, I decided to consider in a broader circle with interested developers the draft decree that would regulate the procedure for mastering biometric documents, and passports in particular. There are serious doubts, not only mine but also among the people. You remember: at the stage when we just started talking about it, both public organizations and individuals strongly opposed it," Alexander Lukashenko explained. - I had to take a timeout so that we could seriously work on this issue. Today you have concluded that everything is ready. We will now see what you have ready and how well the people will be protected from forgery."

"It is assumed that this innovation will affect absolutely everyone, but at the same time, Belarusians should receive additional opportunities, not problems," emphasized Alexander Lukashenko. - The difficulties that people and organizations may encounter when obtaining new documents and their subsequent use should not be overlooked."

The Head of State drew attention to the need to consider all organizational and technical nuances. "Will we create obstacles for citizens in exercising their rights, will we ensure the protection of their personal data? This is what concerns me the most," the President said. "Won't it turn out that we'll create another problem, in plain language? Is it necessary to introduce biometric documents immediately, as proposed, from April 30, or is more time needed for preparation? All issues should be thoroughly worked out before the issuance of new documents begins."

The President designated the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Communications and Informatization as coordinators of this activity.

As previously reported by representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the identification card is a small plastic card onto which the owner's photograph and basic personal data will be printed. The visual information is similar to the data currently in a passport – full name, date of birth, citizenship, gender, document number, type and expiry date, owner's signature. All other information (e.g., place of registration, information about children, marriage) is linked to the document online. It can be read using a special terminal. Individuals who receive an ID card will automatically acquire an electronic digital signature with a 10-year validity period and a personal electronic cabinet. From the moment of creation, the cabinet will be in an inactive status until the person activates it with the ID card. It will contain all information with the history of the cabinet's use.

Using the ID card will allow access to all services and administrative procedures that have been converted to electronic form.

The ID card is an internal identity document. For travel abroad, a biometric passport will need to be obtained additionally. This is a biometric document in the form of a passport booklet with an integrated microchip containing an electronic means of biometric identification.

BELTA