The Digital Government Act (in Dutch, Wet digitale overheid, abbreviated Wdo) is the core of the new System Access, which consolidates the existing systems of DigiD, eHerkenning, and eIDAS. In recent years, Rob Kerstens has been involved in developing System Access as its director. He has recently stepped down from his duties. Here, he offers a brief reflection on the situation and his experience.
Kerstens starts by explaining the social relevance of the system: “It will ensure that access to government services no longer runs through 1 channel. The recent DDOS-attack (Dutch) that caused the DigiD malfunction is a prime example of how vulnerable this is. Being able to choose from multiple login methods has now become a must. A key objective of the system is the mandatory provision of higher levels of security for services containing sensitive personal data, such as healthcare services. In addition, the system allows us to align easily with European developments.”
Improving digital services
Kerstens has filled the role of System Access Director for the past three years. As such, he coordinated and monitored the development of the system, brought parties together and ensured that both policy-related and practical steps were being taken. Kerstens also chaired the Access Table, a consultative body within the Generic Digital Infrastructure (GDI) where ministries and public service providers join forces to improve digital services.
Kerstens: “We deal with the ‘dots (on the horizon)’: the Long-Term Vision, and with the ‘steps’: practical improvements and innovations. As System Director, I helped prepare the new System Consultation. Through a market consultation, we are working towards a consultation that also involves private parties. I am expecting the inaugural meeting of this consultation to be held within a few months.”
Secure access under threat
According to Kerstens, the importance of System Access is only becoming more pressing: “We are increasingly facing threats to our privacy or our digital infrastructure. 1 login for public services is simply too vulnerable.” Therefore, building System Access must be done properly and thoroughly, step by step. “It is essential that all participants are firmly committed to the new system. There is still room for improvement in that area, but the Ministry of BZK is working hard to achieve that. As well as commitment, parties will also need to have endurance. Nonethelessss, I am confident that implementation of System Access will be a reality in the coming years.”
If you have any questions or suggestions regarding System Access, please contact: digitaletoegang@minbzk.nl
