UN Agency to Initiate Blockchain Education and Advisory Programs for Governments

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is set to introduce two key initiatives focused on assisting governments in the integration of blockchain technology.

Key Takeaways

The UNDP is launching a blockchain education program for government officials and an advisory body to facilitate blockchain adoption.
Four governments will be selected to participate in the program that will begin in the coming weeks.
Research by UNDP has identified 300 possible use cases for blockchain in government sectors.
There is ongoing development of a UN blockchain advisory group, which could be operational within two to three months.
The UNDP is conducting pilot projects in 20 countries to promote financial inclusion using blockchain technology.

UN agency to launch blockchain education, advisory programs for governments

UNDP aims to enhance blockchain adoption worldwide through educational programs and advisory services for governments. These efforts are designed to expand upon their existing blockchain academy for UN personnel, targeting real-world applications of the technology.

UNDP's Blockchain Initiatives

Robert Pasicko, head of UNDP’s financial technology team, AltFinLab, disclosed to Cointelegraph during a meeting in UN City, Copenhagen, that the new blockchain education program will soon be launched for government officials, in conjunction with a blockchain advisory body. This initiative will build on the existing blockchain academy established by UNDP for its staff, shifting the focus to help governments implement practical blockchain applications.

Within a few weeks, Pasicko anticipates that the new academy will commence operations and partner with four selected governments, pending formal approval expected in one to two weeks. “Training is only part of our mission,” he highlighted, outlining that UNDP will also support these initiatives as they transition into project development. Notably, UNDP has identified 300 potential use cases for deploying blockchain technology within government frameworks.

Flag of the United Nations at UN City in Copenhagen. Source: Wikimedia

Development of the UN's Blockchain Advisory Group

Pasicko shared that the concept of a UNDP-led blockchain advisory organization surfaced during a recent UN General Assembly meeting in New York, which included 25 leading blockchain companies such as Ethereum Foundation, Stellar Foundation, and Polygon Labs. If all goes as planned, the advisory group could be operational within the next two to three months.

The UNDP currently has pilot projects in 20 nations focusing on enhancing financial inclusion through blockchain applications. One notable partner is Decaf, a cryptocurrency-enabled payment system that allows individuals to utilize financial services without relying on traditional banks. Pasicko raised an intriguing question: “Why might we need regular banks if such applications exist?”

The Future of Banking Infrastructure

Drawing a parallel between banking evolution and the decline of public phone booths, Pasicko indicated that traditional banking infrastructures may soon face obsolescence, much like these booths have. He illustrated that in certain regions, phone booths have transformed into WiFi hotspots, indicating a shift in their purpose.

He posed the question, “Will ATMs still be necessary in a few years?” and expressed skepticism. Regarding the potential shift being driven by cryptocurrencies, private stablecoins, or central bank digital currencies, he suggested that a mix of all three might emerge, with various jurisdictions leaning towards different solutions. However, he emphasized that advancements in technology render traditional intermediaries unnecessary.

“All you really need for these transactions is an internet connection and your smartphone,” he remarked.

Despite these technological advancements, Pasicko noted that those currently in charge are striving to maintain their control. He analogized the dual nature of technology, arguing that it can be used for both beneficial and harmful purposes, similar to fire, which can provide warmth or cause destruction.

He concluded by suggesting that blockchain, like other technologies, has the potential to either exacerbate disparities between the wealthy and powerful and the broader population or to serve the needs of the many.

Stay informed with the latest updates in blockchain and cryptocurrency developments by following reliable news sources and staying engaged in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.