UNICEF has launched pension features of its UN Digital ID app for retiring staff. Built on the technology behind the UN Joint Staff Pension Fund’s (UNJSPF) Digital Certificate of Entitlement, the app will be designed to enhance data quality and sharing across systems and organisations, improve transparency, and transform the separation and pension-processing experience for staff.
The rollout makes UNICEF the fourth UN agency after WFP, UNDP, and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to adopt the Digital ID for pension services, following the first version’s debut in June 2024. The initiative supports the broader goal of creating a “universal, easy-to-use” digital identity for all UN staff, reducing data fragmentation and simplifying administrative processes from onboarding through retirement.
UNJSPF Chief Executive of Pension Administration, Rosemarie McClean, said the programme’s role will drive a “more connected and efficient United Nations” and UNJSPF is proud to be at the “forefront of this digital transformation”.
UNICEF Deputy Executive Director for Management, Hannan Sulieman, called the launch a major shift towards “innovative, digital-first operations”, noting the benefits for efficiency and resource impact.
With UNICEF now on board, the UN Digital ID programme plans to further scale across the UN system, including new functions such as verifying mandatory training and facilitating inter-agency mobility.
The UN’s implementation highlights how robust digital identity is foundational to internal efficiency, delivering a unique staff experience, and upholding the highest standards of data security for a diverse, global employee base.
This essential topic will be addressed in the Modern Identity Management, Digital ID in Government, and Mobile Identity sessions at Identity Week Europe 2026.
Hear from leading voices in governance and identity management, including Tariq Malik, Technical Advisor, Digital ID & DPI, The World Bank, who will share global best practices for secure and efficient digital public infrastructure.
