15-07-2025
Laos moves toward integrating digital ID systems
VIENTIANE: The Lao government is working to integrate the national citizen database and identity card systems across all ministries and state agencies, aiming to usher in a new era of digital governance that enhances public administration, service delivery, and national development planning.
This initiative supports the government's goal of building a unified digital identity infrastructure to enhance public service delivery, socio-economic planning, and national security, Lao Economic Daily reported on Tuesday (July 15).
All ministries and local authorities are required to participate. Ministers, provincial governors, and district administrators must lead efforts to securely and efficiently share personal data with the Lao Ministry of Public Security.
The reform aims to enable accurate, real-time identity verification and streamline administrative procedures for both citizens and businesses.
Ministries must ensure that their officials understand the legal and technical aspects of using citizen data and prepare for digital integration with the central system.
Relevant sectors are urged to integrate their databases to enhance services such as school enrolment, healthcare, taxation, social security, and business registration. Systems for managing passports, vehicles, and property records will also be connected.
Local authorities will promote citizen engagement, improve digital literacy, raise public awareness of the new system, and propose user-friendly policies.
This nationwide integration marks a major milestone in Laos' digital transformation, aimed at improving service delivery, operational efficiency, and public trust in data management. - Xinhua
