Civil Registration and Identity

Civil registration and civic identity have become relevant in Latin America and the Caribbean in recent years given its relevance to priority issues such as poverty alleviation, access to education and health, and democratic governance.

An effective and universal civil registration allows for reliable vital statistics that forms the basis for inclusive public policies and programs. Furthermore, effective and universal civil registration is the foundation that allows the unique, legal identity of all its citizens which is necessary for accessing all other rights and benefits.

That is why the countries of the region promote the modernization of civil registry institutions.

The IDB's goal is to continue to support the further improvement of civil registration systems in countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. In addition, the Bank will continue to carry out research to improve the data on public policy linked to registration in the region.

The IDB has funded projects to promote the registration of birth by strengthening the civil registry institutions, and the capacity to ensure a unique, legal identity for all citizens and residents. The Bank has also conducted research to qualify and quantify under-reporting and lack of documentation, and there is already a number of publications available.

Emerging issues relevant to the modernization of the registries are the need to update and strengthen the legal framework, strengthen the institutional capacity and the incorporation of new technologies.