Approaching Interoperability for Identity Management Systems

Summary Establishing interoperable systems is a complex operation that goes far beyond the technical interconnectedness of databases and systems. Interoperability emerges from the need to communicate data across different domains for a specific purpose. Transferring the data may represent a technical challenge because of different protocols, standards, formats and so forth. However, the most difficult challenge lies in reconciling and aligning the purpose, use and other changes consequent on transferring that data. Changes in data ownership and custodianship have an effect on power structures, roles and responsibilities and on risk. In the first part of this chapter our aim is to develop an understanding of the term ‘interoperability’ as it currently applies to the area of identity management. We propose a three-fold conception of interoperability in IdMS, involving technical, but also formal-policy, legal and regulatory components, as well as informal-behavioural and cultural aspects. Having noted the official EU/government agenda as regards interoperable IdMS, the second part of the chapter is concerned with the perspective of other important stakeholders on the same topic. First, the views of experts from private and public sectors across Europe are presented. Following this, the perceptions and attitudes of EU citizens towards interoperable IdMS are discussed. Together, the findings presented point to the crucial challenges and implications associated with the sharing of personal data in the provision of eGovernment, eHealth and related services.