The government of Mauritius is planning to introduce biometric passports in 2024, with regulations for the new national identity card on the way. Measures are being taken to accelerate the process, including the selection of a specialised company to manage the project.
The biometric passport will store personal information and biometric data like facial features and fingerprints. According to the government, it aims to prevent passport trafficking and identify international criminals at customs.
The decision to introduce biometric passports in 2024 follows a recommendation from the International Civil Aviation Organization. Over 70 countries have already adopted this type of passport for enhanced security.
The previous government had begun the process of introducing biometric passports in 2013, which was reactivated in 2017 under the current government.
Activist Ivor Tan Yan opposes the project, expressing concerns about potential data misuse for electoral manipulation.
Tan Yan highlights the need for infrastructure projects like drains over the implementation of biometric passports.
The introduction of biometric passports officially aims to simplify airport procedures by digitising information for immigration officers. Data will be stored in a smart card inserted into the e-passport for efficient scanning and verification.
The government believes the biometric passport will enhance security and curb identity theft. Biometric features like iris data and fingerprints will be used for identification. The new passport will help in identifying criminals like Peter Uricek, preventing their entry into the country.
The government is gearing up to roll out the biometric passport by 2024, despite opposition and concerns raised by activists. The decision to adopt biometric passports aligns with global trends in enhancing travel security and border control.
Source: Defi Media
