This JRC report “Blockchain for digital government” analyses some blockchain services developed in Europe which have active participation by public authorities. The three main blockchain functionalities developed seem to be notarisation, shared database and workflow automation.
Blockchain notarisation is relatively mature, while more disruptive solutions face challenges in implementation, mainly related to incompatibility with the current administrative processes and regulatory noncompliance.
My three favourite projects listed in the study are:
– The uPort decentralised identity project (Switzerland) to allow citizens to create blockchain-based identity that is independent from the government.
– The Stadjerspas smart vouchers system (Netherlands) as a blockchain-based redistribution system of benefits for low-income citizens. This service is operational and highlights the potential of programmable money for targeting and allocating social benefits and grants by blockchain technology.
Study elaboration, based on data collected from project teams and desk research
– The Infrachain which aims to create a European community of certified private chain instances hosting operator.
Study elaboration, based on data collected from project teams and desk research
It’s clear that blockchain is neither transformative nor even disruptive at the moment but there is a lot of room for development in the public sector.
JRC 2019, Blockchain for digital government. An assessment of pioneering implementations in public services
Authors: David Allessie – Maciej Sobolewski – Lorenzino Vaccari
Editor: Francesco Pignatelli
