Inclusivity in Identity (WiD)
Combined Session
Thursday, May 08, 2025 14:30—15:30
Location: B 07-08
Thursday, May 08, 2025 14:30—15:30
Location: B 07-08
The ID Gap increases with technological advancement. Over 1 Billion people are unable to prove their identity and are locked out of basic financial and health services. Women in Identity’s ID CODE OF CONDUCT's latest research demonstrates the benefits for firms, governments, and individuals of being ID Inclusive, and the opportunity cost of not being ID inclusive. This session highlights that Financial Inclusion is not possible without Identity inclusion. Dr Sarah Walton will share some of the key findings from Women in Identity’s Economic Impact Report (authored by the London School of Economics) which demonstrates the Economic impact of ID Inclusion. As well as the impact to the bottom line for businesses if their services were more inclusive, and how the ecosystem can work together to make ID Inclusion and Financial Inclusion a reality.
This presentation delves into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, highlighting the Zero Trust model as a transformative paradigm in protecting digital assets. In an era of escalating cyber threats and expanding digital connectivity, Zero Trust offers a robust framework that fundamentally rethinks trust.
Focusing on identity as the cornerstone of this model, we examine the principle that every entity—human or machine—must be identified and verified before access is granted. This concept is particularly critical in hybrid IT environments, where the integration of cloud services, on-premises systems, and legacy infrastructures poses unique challenges. Through case studies and practical examples, we will explore actionable strategies for implementing Zero Trust in diverse IT landscapes.
Beyond the technical, we also address the societal implications of Zero Trust. Topics include balancing enhanced security with privacy concerns, the ethical management of digital identities, and the role of Zero Trust in fostering trust within a digitally connected society.
Combining technical insights with a broader socio-political perspective, this presentation offers a comprehensive view of Zero Trust Identity as both a security imperative and a foundational element of trust in our connected world.
This session highlights the critical role of technology in fostering inclusion while addressing barriers that can marginalize vulnerable populations. Key themes include designing for diversity, bridging the digital divide, and ensuring user-centric solutions that prioritize simplicity and accessibility. Ethical deployment, partnerships, and measurable impact are essential for success, alongside education and awareness to build trust and digital literacy. Scalable, adaptable solutions should balance innovation with responsibility, ensuring privacy and autonomy remain central. Future-ready approaches must prepare for technological advancements while maintaining a focus on inclusivity and sustainability.
