Bhutan Integrates National ID System on Ethereum

The Kingdom of Bhutan has migrated its national identity system to Ethereum, enabling its approximately 800,000 citizens to verify their identities and access government services. This transition from Polygon to Ethereum has been completed, with the full migration of resident credentials expected by early 2026. The event was marked by the presence of Ethereum Foundation President Aya Miyaguchi and Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin, alongside Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. Miyaguchi expressed that this initiative is a significant step towards a more open and secure digital future. Integrating a blockchain-based national ID system is intended to utilize the immutability, transparency, and privacy that Ethereum provides, especially with the implementation of zero-knowledge proofs. Prior to Ethereum, Bhutan operated its national ID system on Polygon and Hyperledger Indy. Bhutan’s proactive approach in the blockchain space is evident, as the nation is also recognized for its substantial Bitcoin holdings, amassed through renewable energy mining. This move to Ethereum emphasizes Bhutan's commitment to self-sovereign identity and its desire to empower citizens digitally.

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