Stop Killing the Internet: No Digital ID and No Age Verification
Points and comments are a snapshot, not live.
EU citizens' initiative demands digital identity and age verification remain voluntary.
The European Commission has registered a citizens' initiative calling for legislation that keeps digital identity and age verification voluntary, privacy-preserving, and non-discriminatory online. The initiative mandates anonymous or pseudonymous proof-of-age, data minimization, open-source implementation, independent security audits, and prohibition of cross-service tracking. It also requires non-digital alternatives for citizens not using digital wallets. Organizers argue citizens must not be forced to identify themselves to access lawful online content unless strictly necessary and proportionate under EU law.
What commenters are saying
Commenters are sharply divided. One camp argues the initiative's abolitionist stance on digital ID and age verification is unrealistic, pointing to legitimate needs for secure online identity verification and parental demands for child protection online. They cite failed past efforts like PICS and warn against vilifying the EU. Another camp defends the initiative, noting its actual text supports voluntary, anonymous proof-of-age, not a ban. Several commenters blame lazy parents for demanding government solutions instead of using existing parental controls. A minority calls the initiative a missed opportunity to reframe the debate against mass surveillance.