Amid increasing use of digitalised commercial offers and electronic government services, Switzerland’s parliament approved a special law regarding digital identity. Through the ballot box, opponents want to veto it because of data security concerns. Unlike many other European countries, Switzerland does not provide its residents with a certified verification method for a digital identity, also referred to as eID. This tool is aimed at simplifying the use of online services with a single login function. The law approved by parliament is aimed at simplifying the use of online services with a single login function. It has not yet been implemented due to questions raised by opponents. At the centre of the debate is what role the state should play in such a technical and personal issue. What’s at stake? A law defining the principles for an eID, a system to ensure secure access to online services and to carry out electronic transactions, has been challenged to a nationwide vote over...
