Enhancing Refugee Support Through Digital Identity Solutions

Refugees face immense challenges, especially when lacking civil registration and identity documents. Without these, they struggle with restricted movement, access to essential services, and legal protections, making them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

Recognizing this critical issue, Gebirah, a Singaporean humanitarian organization, has partnered with the Singapore University of Technology and Design to develop a secure app enabling marginalized groups to create and manage digital identities. This initiative, inspired by apps like Singpass and Health Buddy, aims to provide refugees and displaced individuals with a secure way to document and verify their identity. Such a tool can significantly improve their access to services and opportunities, helping them rebuild their lives more effectively.

Refugees often escape conflict with little more than the clothes on their backs, losing vital identification documents in the process.

Then there is the issue of fake UNHCR cards on sale in the black market which poses significant challenges, undermining trust and complicating efforts to support genuine refugees.

Gebirah’s digital ID solution will help address the issue of fake IDs by providing a secure, verifiable means of identification.

A digital identity app can capture essential personal information, providing a crucial tool for accessing health care, education, and legal assistance. It also helps in reuniting families and supports the reintegration process when refugees return home or settle in new communities.

For millions of displaced individuals, the introduction of such technology could be life-changing. It aligns with broader efforts to enhance civil registration and identity management in humanitarian settings, as highlighted in studies conducted by organizations like the UNHCR and UNICEF.

Additionally, this digital ID will be linked to Gebirah's humanitarian app called HELP, which allows refugees to request material support and assistance directly from donors in the general public.

Gebirah is actively seeking partners, collaborators, volunteers, and NGOs interested in supporting this project or using this service. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of refugees and internally displaced people, providing them with the tools they need for a secure and dignified future.