Digital sovereignty milestone: a turning point for the kingdom.
Bhutan, blending tradition and innovation, advances its digital transition. The kingdom shifts its national ID system to Ethereum’s blockchain. It reflects its commitment to digital sovereignty, transparency, and data protection.
A strategic evolution: from Polygon to Ethereum.
Until now, Bhutan’s digital identity ran on Polygon, built from a Hyperledger Indy project.
Now, the government has chosen Ethereum for its robustness, openness, and Web3 compatibility.
The technical deployment is underway, with full migration expected by 2026.
Objectives: security, transparency, and autonomy.
This ambitious project has three goals:
1. Strengthen digital sovereignty: By using a public blockchain, Bhutan aims to keep control of its data and reduce foreign dependencies.
2. Protect personal data: The system uses advanced privacy technologies, especially Zero-Knowledge Proofs, which verify identity without exposing sensitive information.
3. Simplify access to public services: Citizens will soon access essential services, health, education, and administration, through a single, tamper-proof digital identity.
Challenges of the digital transition
Although promising, the project also highlights several challenges:
- Interoperability: Ensure compatibility between existing systems and Ethereum.
- Digital inclusivity: Guarantee access for all citizens, including those in rural areas.
- Security and governance: Define a clear framework to manage, validate, and update digital identities.
- Privacy: Balance transparency with the protection of individual rights.
An example for other emerging countries
Bhutan positions itself among the first countries to adopt a public ID system based on Ethereum.
This bold move could inspire other nations to modernize their administrations and strengthen digital confidence. By embracing Ethereum, the kingdom demonstrates that blockchain can support governance, transparency, and human development.
Conclusion
By migrating its digital ID system to Ethereum, Bhutan confirms its ambition to pioneer digital sovereignty. This project, merging technology and citizenship, reflects a clear vision: building a modern, connected state that respects its citizens’ privacy. If successful, it could redefine how governments approach digital identity in the Web3 era.
For more information: https://coinaute.com/en/
Buthan citizen service portal: https://www.citizenservices.gov.bt/g2cportal/ListOfLifeEventComponent
