EU to propose 'digital green pass' vaccine certificate

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday said the EU executive would propose a digital vaccination certificate, the 'green pass', later this month.

The certificate proposed by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, aims to open a fast lane for travel, without the restrictions caused by rapid tests and mandatory quarantine.

Greece, Spain and Italy support the system, however northern EU partners, like Germany, doubt whether the certificates would work.

"The aim is to gradually enable them to move safely in the European Union or abroad — for work or tourism," von der Leyen wrote in a Tweet.

We'll present this month a legislative proposal for a Digital Green Pass. The aim is to provide:
•Proof that a person has been vaccinated
•Results of tests for those who couldn’t get a vaccine yet
•Info on COVID19 recovery
It will respect data protection, security & privacy
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) March 1, 2021

The planned digital tool will aim to provide proof that a person has been vaccinated and will also display the results of tests, i.e. for those who have been unable to get a vaccine yet, along with information on “COVID-19 recovery”.

EU Commission Vice President Margaritis Schoinas announced the “preen pass” initiative is scheduled to be presented on March 17.

We shall present an initiative on 17 March focusing on travel and mobility: Digital green passes including information on vaccination, test results and statements of recovery; respecting data protection, security and privacy. Safe opening that preserves all sacrifices done so far https://t.co/0PyL6KXZdG
— Margaritis Schinas (@MargSchinas) March 1, 2021

Last week, EU leaders agreed to work on vaccine certificates. “We agreed to continue our work on a common approach. More work needs to be done – on digitalisation and on cooperation with the World Health Organisation. But tonight we felt more and more convergence among us on this important topic. The European Council will revert to this matter,” President Charles Michel said.

In January, EU countries agreed on the basic data requirements of a vaccination certificate, although that was intended for medical purposes only. The incoming legislative proposal will add to that.