Memdeklaro is a philosophical and humanitarian project that focuses on the concept of self-declaration of identity. It aims to empower individuals to define their own identities without reliance on traditional government-issued identification, which can often exclude or marginalize certain groups of people. This initiative is particularly relevant for those who lack access to government IDs, such as stateless individuals, refugees, and others who may not have been registered at birth or who have escaped abusive situations.
Key Features of Memdeklaro
- Self-Declaration: The project allows individuals to create their own identity declarations, which are not dependent on third-party authorities. This self-declaration is designed to be a simple document that can be printed and carried, serving as a personal identifier.
- Philosophical Foundation: Memdeklaro promotes the idea that identity should not be tied to one's birthplace, culture, or the circumstances of birth. Instead, it emphasizes personal agency and the importance of character, beliefs, and actions.
- Humanitarian Alternative: By providing a means for self-identification, Memdeklaro seeks to challenge the monopolistic control that states have over identity and to support the freedoms of name, belief, and association.
- Esperanto Language: The self-declaration is presented in Esperanto, a constructed international language that symbolizes peace and inclusivity. This choice reflects the project's commitment to a global community that transcends national boundaries.
Components of the Self-Declaration
The self-declaration document includes:
- Personal Information: Self-chosen first name, surname, birth date, and a photo.
- Signature: The individual’s signature to authenticate the document.
- Notes Field: An optional section for additional information, such as a statement of conscientious objection.
- Issuer Information: Details about the issuer, including an arbitrary ID number and issuance dates.
Memdeklaro represents a significant step towards redefining identity in a way that is inclusive and empowering, particularly for those who have been marginalized by traditional systems of identification.
