The ‘Reimagining Digital ID among Karen refugees’ project (REDID) investigated how encamped Karen people in Thailand experience biometric systems, which are becoming ever more common in humanitarian settings. The project also focused on how encamped Karen people imagine alternative futures, including technological futures, through art. Ultimately, the REDID project aims to inform policy and practices regarding the design, implementation, and management of responsible digital ID systems in refugee camps in Thailand and beyond. We have done so through a programme of public scholarship, and by working closely with the community to create and translate our findings into actionable recommendations for refugee leaders and communities, NGOs and CSOs, donors, technology companies and policymakers. This work is especially timely, as the withdrawal of aid has made the recognition of encamped refugees an increasingly urgent concern.

 

The September 9th panel event will launch the final REDID project report and recommendations. The multi-stakeholder panel will provide an opportunity for dialogue among those involved in refugee and human rights issues and/or technology and digital ID systems. The event also marks the end of the exhibition ‘Reimagining Digital ID: poems and drawings by Karen refugees in Thailand’, which has been held at the Museum of Anthropology at Thammasat University. Through their artwork, Karen refugees imagine a fair ID system and alternative futures for all.

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More information on guest speakers coming soon!