The use of biometric data has emerged as a key concern in Fiji’s proposed national identity system, with members of the public questioning privacy, security and the extent of information being collected.
Under the proposal, individuals would be required to submit fingerprints, iris scans and facial recognition data as part of registration – a move authorities say is critical to preventing identity fraud.
Responding to concerns during a public consultation yesterday, Reserve Bank of Fiji Deputy Governor Esala Masitabua defended the use of biometrics.
“The bottom four is the definitive confirmation that you are who you say you are,” he said.
Mr Masitabua warned that relying solely on basic personal details could expose individuals to identity theft.
“They are what people use to steal people’s identity,” he said, referring to information such as birth registration numbers, addresses, names and gender.
He stressed that biometric data would be used strictly for identity verification and authentication, not for tracking or monitoring individuals.
However, members of the public voiced concern that the level of data being collected marked a significant shift in how identification was handled in Fiji.
Mr Masitabua said the inclusion of multiple biometric options was also aimed at ensuring accessibility.
“The reason for three different types of biometrics is because of persons with disabilities.”
He explained that having fingerprint, iris and facial recognition systems would allow individuals who cannot use one method to verify their identity through another.
Mr Masitabua added that the system is being designed to be inclusive, ensuring all citizens – regardless of physical ability or circumstances – can be registered and verified within the national identity framework.
It will not be mandatory, says Masitabua
AS concerns mount over privacy and potential enforcement, authorities have moved to firmly assure the
public that Fiji’s proposed National Identity (NID) system will remain voluntary, not compulsory.
Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Esala Masitabua, confirmed the position during a public
consultation in Suva yesterday, emphasising that participation in the system would be a matter of personal
choice.
The proposed NID system aims to provide citizens with a single, secure form of identification, replacing the need for multiple documents such as birth certificates, voter cards, passports and joint ID cards.
“One important pillar for us is that this ID will be for all of you. It’s a national ID, but it will not be mandatory on the citizens,” he said.
Mr Masitabua also underscored that individuals would retain full control over their personal data.
“You still have a further option of selecting whether it should be shared with whoever the agency that needs it.”
“Without your consent, it will not be shared with the agencies that need it… So, you have that total control.”
He said the system had been designed to respect personal choice at every stage, noting that making it compulsory could heighten public unease.
“We feel that making it mandatory will elevate the concerns around it.”
Mr Masitabua added that while the system could see widespread use in the future, adoption would be driven by its benefits rather than enforcement.
He said the consultation process was also aimed at reassuring the public, with authorities maintaining that
keeping the national ID voluntary is key to building trust and confidence among citizens.
