United Kingdom: Mandatory digital ID card sparks controversy
On September 26, 2025, the British Prime Minister announced the creation of a digital identity card, which is set to become mandatory from 2029 for anyone wishing to work in the United Kingdom. The country currently has no physical ID card comparable to France’s. “Digital identity will make it harder to work illegally in this country, thereby strengthening our border security. It will also provide citizens with many advantages, such as the ability to prove their identity quickly to access essential services — without having to dig out an old electricity bill,” argued Keir Starmer.
The proposal quickly met with strong opposition. A petition against the plan gathered over two million signatures in just a few days. Opponents denounce:
- the mandatory nature of the system, which would force every citizen to own a smartphone, including those uncomfortable with technology;
- the risk of data leaks;
- and ethical concerns, with many fearing a drift toward mass surveillance.
According to a July 2025 poll, 57% of Britons support the introduction of a national identity card, but only 38% back a digital version of it.