Honduras and the legal impact of biometric validation

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 verification process necessitates that users submit a picture of their face along with their National Identification Document (DNI) for identity confirmation. CONATEL claims this initiative aims to address crimes like extortion and the misuse of anonymous phone lines, which obstruct law enforcement efforts. Nevertheless, this measure has led to concerns regarding its legality, clarity, and potential impact on individuals’ privacy.

Disputes over the legal and political implications of biometric authentication

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, 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.

In response, CONATEL president Lorenzo Sauceda has defended the measure, assuring that it is legal, transparent, and humane. He has also denied that biometric validation has electoral purposes and clarified that the process is managed by telephone operators, not directly by the state. He also stated that no new government database is being created and that the information collected will not be used for purposes other than those established, thus seeking to dispel doubts about data handling.

Perspectives and future actions in the discussion about 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.

The topic of public opinion has been extensively discussed on social platforms and community forums, with numerous individuals voicing their displeasure and worry regarding the potential breach of their privacy and the ambiguity surrounding the execution. A few have even mentioned their plans to disregard the validation, challenging the capacity of the authorities to disconnect millions of phone lines without significantly disrupting communications nationwide.