Blockchain Technology for Disaster and Refugee Relief Operations

Abstract

Introduction:

Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology for storing and transmitting information (value) that is secure, verifiable, and auditable. Two specific use-case opportunities exist, identity management and payment systems.

Aim:

A secure and auditable solution for disaster refugee support.

Methods:

Gap analysis, literature search, and synthesis using existing technologies.

Results:

Strategy foundation: A blockchain identity management system that utilizes the Hyperledger Fabric framework; identification on a large scale, in a distributed model that provides immutable record capabilities to prevent fraud, with the ability to incorporate biometrics and DNA; deploy applications that will provide supply-chain capabilities; cryptocurrency for recipients and other relief functions for refugees/disaster victims; components such as consensus, membership services, and Smart Contracts; cloud-based, with redundancies in multiple vendors and additional complex government cloud requirements/certifications, leveraging NIST 800–53 by utilizing a hybrid public permissions architecture.

Discussion:

There are an estimated 68 million refugees worldwide at any time. Valid identification is needed by most refugees to qualify for government or international donor relief. That identification is crucial in getting refugees and victims access to the aid supply chain. Blockchain stores data on a large number of computer nodes connected over the Internet. Each node contains an identical copy that is time-stamped and protected by a cryptographic technique called hashing, and control is decentralized. This blockchain strategy will revolutionize the way the government manages the $30 billion in foreign aid to refugees. It will build upon the identities established to deploy applications that will provide supply-chain capabilities, cryptocurrency for recipients, and other relief functions for refugees/disaster victims. Stakeholders beyond government will also benefit tremendously. The distributed nature of our application will provide visibility to NGOs, nonprofits, host nation stakeholders, and other relief organizations. A single system that provides information to everyone involved will almost instantaneously change the face of relief.