As more people, devices and associated personal data get online, there is growing focus on a foundational element of this new digital environment – our identities. The ability to prove we are who we say we are will increasingly determine our opportunities to establish trust with each other and to carry out meaningful interactions in a digital economy. If approached right, it represents transformative opportunities such as access to basic services and more customized digital experiences, enhanced health and well-being, improved traceability in supply chains, citizen safety and global biodiversity protection.