I think this is a pretty good definition, so I am making a note of it here.
For ITU-T purposes, the identity asserted by an entity represents the uniqueness of that entity in a specific context and is not intended to indicate positive validation of a person.
Identity management (IdM) is the process of secure management of identity information (e.g., credentials, identifiers, attributes, and reputations). IdM is a complex technology that includes: establishing, modifying, suspending, archiving or terminating identity information; recognizing partial identities that represent entities in a specific context or role; establishing and assessing trust between entities; and the discovery (location) of an entity’s identity information (e.g., authoritative identity provider (IdP) that is legally responsible for maintaining identifiers, credentials and some or all of the entity’s attributes.
For reference, definitions of identity from various sources are as follows.
The attributes by which an entity is described, recognized or known (ITU-T)
The fundamental concept of uniquely identifying an object (person, computer, etc.) within a context. (OpenGroup)
A set of claims made by one party about another party. Claims are typically conveyed in Signed Security Tokens (Microsoft)
The essence of an entity. One’s identity is often described by one’s characteristics, among which may be any number of identifiers [Liberty & OASIS]
Model diagram created by ITU-T:
Related posts
Data Sustains Lives—MyDataConference 2026 Opening Address
The following is the opening address for the MyData Japan Conference 2026, delivered by Nat Sakimura in his capacity as Chair of the General Incorporated Association…
The MyData Conference 2026 Is This Wednesday. See You at Hitotsubashi Hall!
I have been posting announcements on X every few days, and the MyDataJapan Conference 2026 is this Wednesday. There are many highlights: Naohiro Fujie, Representative Director…
Unsubmitted Public Comment on the Call for Comments on the Draft First Report of the Youth Protection Working Group on Information Distribution in the Digital Space
July 823:59 was the deadline for the call for comments on the draft first report. I ended the FAPI WG early and23:40 began the submission process…