The compulsory introduction of biometric verification for mobile users in Honduras has sparked considerable debate across numerous arenas, such as the political, legal, and social domains. This policy, driven by the National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL), mandates that individuals must confirm their biometric information by June 1, 2025, to maintain their phone service. Non-compliance with this obligation might lead to the forfeiture of existing phone numbers, provoking worry among the populace and various groups.
The biometric validation process requires users to provide a photograph of their face along with their National Identification Document (DNI) in order to verify their identity. CONATEL argues that this initiative seeks to combat crimes such as extortion and the use of anonymous telephone lines, which hinder the work of the authorities. However, the measure has raised questions about its legality, transparency, and possible implications for citizens’ privacy.
Legal and political controversies surrounding biometric validation
Various political and social participants have raised apprehensions regarding the legitimacy and management of the biometric data being gathered. Congressman Carlos Umaña, representing the Salvadoran Party of Honduras (PSH), has claimed the initiative lacks proper legal support, labeling it as “entirely unlawful” and advising citizens to withhold compliance until a transparent regulatory structure is in place to oversee the gathering and utilization of biometric data by CONATEL. This stance highlights a discussion about the validity of the initiative and the safeguarding of fundamental rights.
Conversely, Roberto Montenegro, who leads the Patriotic Alliance Party, has voiced worries regarding the potential political use of biometric data, particularly during an election year. Montenegro contends that the National Registry of Persons (RNP) is the sole entity with legal rights to manage biometric information, raising doubts about CONATEL’s ability to execute this plan. These critiques underscore issues about potential political exploitation of sensitive data and the necessity to ensure the security and privacy of the population.
In reply, CONATEL president Lorenzo Sauceda has justified the action, confirming that it is lawful, open, and considerate. He has also refuted claims that biometric verification is intended for electoral aims and explained that telephone companies, not the government, are in charge of the process. Furthermore, he asserted that no new governmental database is being developed and that the data gathered will only be utilized for predetermined purposes, aiming to alleviate concerns about information management.
Outlook and next steps in the debate on biometric validation
CONATEL has been called to present in front of the National Congress’s Security and Citizen Prevention Commission on May 28, 2025. They are expected to clarify the technological and legal groundwork for biometric validation. This meeting will play a crucial role in tackling worries related to privacy, legality, and transparency of the procedure and might affect whether the policy persists or undergoes changes.
The public has extensively discussed this matter on social platforms and community forums, where numerous individuals have conveyed their unease and discontent regarding the potential breach of their privacy and the obscurity of the enactment process. A few have even mentioned their reluctance to adhere to the validation, casting doubt on the authorities’ competence to disconnect millions of phone lines without significantly disrupting the nation’s communications.
