Do digital IDs make life easier, or do they open the door to control? Around the world, plans for nationwide and even global identification systems are moving fast. Supporters say these systems streamline payments, unlock services, and cut fraud. Critics warn they create a permanent tool of surveillance and behavioural control that no free society should accept.

Why does it matter? Digital IDs are already embedded in many countries around the world. New treaties and policies tie into them. Experts say this is the biggest civil liberties fight of our time.