Framework for pan-European electronic ID pilots complete

The framework and specifications that will enable interoperable electronic identities to be used across European states have been created. This will underpin five pilot projects to take place in 2010.

The pilot projects will be led by the Secure identity across borders linked (Stork), a scheme co-funded by the EU to enable businesses, citizens and government employees to use their national electronic identities in any member state.

According to Stork, key steps in the process included the approval of the technologies, standards and specifications required to form a universal framework, while considering the legal and infrastructural limitations of each EU state taking part in the scheme.

The five pilot projects will run for a period of 12 months and will test the identities for use with cross-border electronic services including national and regional web portals.

Trials will include a ‘safer chat’ pilot - to promote safe use of the internet by children and young people; a ‘student mobility’ pilot to help people who want to study in different EU states; an electronic delivery to develop cross-border mechanisms for secure online delivery of documents; and a tool to assist people moving across EU borders.

Different member states will take part in the trials, which will be run on a “very flexible” basis. The model was agreed over a year-long period by the EU member states taking part in the project and will be unveiled at Stork’s reference group next week.