Background

The global humanitarian landscape has become increasingly complex, and people in need often receive assistance from multiple organizations. Without shared information among different organizations on who is assisting whom, and with what type of support, people can inadvertently receive more or less than they need.

Building Blocks (BB) – the world’s largest humanitarian use of blockchain technology – is changing that. It allows organizations to work together, coordinate efforts and stretch resources farther, helping serve more people, more effectively than before.

Building Blocks

BB is a privately managed blockchain network (FAQ link) that connects various humanitarian organizations providing assistance. BB has adapted blockchain technology for specific humanitarian needs, including complex programme designs. Humanitarian organizations assisting the same people can channel assistance to the same blockchain account, where it is coordinated.

From the same account, people in need can access a variety of items allocated by different organizations, such as cash, food, education or health. This way, collective assistance is coordinated and equitable. People’s access to support is also simplified and more convenient.

BB capitalizes on the unique features of blockchain, particularly its neutrality—all organizations using the platform are equal owners and managers, with no hierarchy. In addition, many different humanitarian applications can be built using the network.