As biometric modalities continue to evolve and be explored, the need for robust governance, guidance and legislation is as important as ever to safeguard the rights and freedoms of individuals.

Legislation is naturally subject to change as governments come and go. It can also vary widely between jurisdictions and cultures, as can methods and capabilities related to enforcing legislation.

However, the general public’s expectations of governments or organisations which process its biometric data remains the same – respect for the personal privacy and general security of individuals. And while recognising the centrality of individual impacts, these governance frameworks should not inhibit innovation, but should provide appropriate support for the necessary and proportionate use of biometric technologies and the subsequent processing of biometric data.

This chapter of the State of Biometrics Report covers legislation, public perception and ethics, accessibility and inclusion, and standards and testing. 

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