_-_copia.jpg?w=800&resize=800,500&ssl=1 "Biometric validation in Honduras")
The mandatory implementation of biometric validation for mobile phone users in Honduras has generated significant controversy in various spheres, including the political, legal, and social spheres. This measure, promoted by the National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL), establishes that citizens must validate their biometric data before June 1, 2025, to keep their phone lines active. Failure to comply with this requirement could result in the loss of current phone numbers, which has caused concern among the population and various sectors.
The process of validating biometrics involves users supplying a facial photo along with their National Identification Card (DNI) to confirm their identity. CONATEL asserts that this initiative aims to address issues like extortion and the utilization of phone lines without identification, which obstruct law enforcement efforts. Nonetheless, this measure has sparked concerns regarding its legal standing, openness, and potential effects on the privacy of individuals.
Disputes over the legal and political implications of biometric authentication
Various political and social actors have expressed concern about the legality and handling of the biometric data collected. Congressman Carlos Umaña, of the Salvadoran Party of Honduras (PSH), has pointed out that the measure lacks adequate legal backing, calling it “completely illegal” and recommending that citizens not comply with the provision until there is a clear regulatory framework governing the collection and use of biometric data by CONATEL. This position reflects a debate about the legitimacy of the measure and the protection of fundamental rights.
Conversely, Roberto Montenegro, leader of the Patriotic Alliance Party, has voiced worries regarding the potential political exploitation of biometric data, particularly during an election year. Montenegro contends that solely the National Registry of Persons (RNP) has the legitimate jurisdiction to manage biometric information, thereby questioning CONATEL’s ability to execute this project. These critiques emphasize apprehensions about the potential political misuse of sensitive information and the necessity to ensure the security and privacy of citizens.
As a response, CONATEL’s leader Lorenzo Sauceda has supported the action, affirming that it is lawful, open, and considerate. He refuted claims that biometric checks serve electoral aims and explained that phone companies, rather than the government, oversee the process. Moreover, he mentioned that the government isn’t forming any new database and that the gathered data will adhere to predetermined uses only, aiming to allay concerns about data usage.
Prospects and future actions in the discussion on biometric authentication
CONATEL has been called to attend a meeting with the Security and Citizen Prevention Commission of the National Congress on May 28, 2025, to discuss the technical and legal foundations of biometric validation. This meeting will be crucial in tackling questions regarding the privacy, legality, and transparency of the process and might affect whether the measure is upheld or altered.
Citizen discussions have taken center stage on online platforms and community boards, where numerous individuals have voiced their unease and discontent regarding possible privacy breaches and the ambiguous nature of the rollout. There are even those who have announced plans to reject the verification, casting doubt on the authorities’ capacity to suspend millions of phone connections without significantly impacting national communications.