The European Commission has announced that its plans for a new travel system for Europe, known as the Digital Green Certificate, have been delayed again due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The system is now expected to be ready for launch in 2025, three years later than previously planned.
The Digital Green Certificate is intended to make it easier for people to travel between European countries while still ensuring necessary health protocols like testing or vaccinations are in place. It would be available as a digital or physical certificate and be accepted by all EU countries.
The Commission said that the delay was necessary to ensure safe and secure implementation of the system as well as to allow for coordination between countries. It also noted that the system was dependent on the development of global standards and regulations for digital solutions, which are still in progress.
The Commission also stressed the importance of ensuring that the system protects personal data and is equipped with digital security measures to prevent misuse. It also reiterated the importance of the system to the resumption of free movement throughout Europe and its economic recovery.
