The Czech Government has made a significant decision to assign the Digital Information Agency (DIA) the responsibility of developing the eDoklady application, which will serve as an electronic substitute for traditional ID cards starting from the upcoming year. The move aims to streamline and modernize identification processes while providing individuals with greater control over their personal data.

Ivan Bartoš, the Minister for Regional Development and Digitalization, emphasized the importance of this decision in ensuring that the project remains on schedule. By entrusting the DIA with the task, the government aims to prevent any potential delays that could arise from waiting for important laws to take effect.

Minister Bartoš expressed confidence in the timely delivery of the eDoklady application, assuring the public that it will be available this year. The extended timeframe provided to the DIA for development and testing will allow for cost savings and the necessary infrastructure preparations to ensure a smooth implementation.

The government’s resolution enables the practical development of the application to proceed independently of the Electronic Documents Act, which is expected to become effective in November. The legislative process associated with the act was paused temporarily to address technical intricacies and ensure seamless integration with registries.

Once implemented, eDoklady will be a fully recognized alternative to traditional ID cards. It will offer several advantages, including increased control over personal data. Individuals will have the ability to choose which information to disclose during verification processes, reducing the need for unnecessary sharing of personal details. In certain instances, demonstrating legal adulthood alone may be sufficient, providing a more privacy-conscious approach to identification.

The introduction of the eDoklady application represents a significant step towards digital transformation and the modernization of identification systems in the Czech Republic. It reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance efficiency, convenience, and data privacy for its citizens.

Article by Prague Forum