UNHCR Wins Award for Blockchain-Powered Cash Assistance to Ukrainian

The project's success demonstrates the potential of **blockchain technology** to deliver aid to those in need more efficiently and securely. **Kelly T. Clements**, **UNHCR's** Deputy High Commissioner, emphasized the importance of investing in digital literacy and connectivity among displaced populations to adapt solutions to their needs. The use of blockchain technology in this project also highlights the role of the **tech sector** in helping humanitarian agencies innovate to deliver better aid. For more information on **UNHCR's** work with **refugees**, visit their website at [[unhcr-refugee-work|UNHCR Refugee Work]]. To learn more about the **Stellar Development Foundation (SDF)**, visit their website at [[stellar-development-foundation|Stellar Development Foundation]].

• The UNHCR has won an award for its pilot project using blockchain technology to disburse cash to refugees in Ukraine
• The project used USD Coin (USDC) to transfer cash assistance directly into the recipients' digital wallets
• UNHCR has delivered almost $5 billion in cash assistance to some 35 million people in 100 countries since 2016
• The use of blockchain technology has the potential to improve the efficiency, security, and transparency of humanitarian aid delivery
• The project is still in its pilot phase and it is unclear whether it will be expanded

The **UNHCR's** pilot project using **blockchain technology** to disburse cash to refugees in **Ukraine** is an interesting experiment in the use of technology to deliver humanitarian aid. While the project has shown promise, it is still in its early stages, and it remains to be seen whether it can be scaled up to support larger numbers of people. The use of **USD Coin (USDC)** and the partnership with **Stellar Development Foundation (SDF)** and **United Nations International Computing Centre (UNICC)** are notable aspects of the project. For more information on **blockchain technology**, visit the **Stellar Development Foundation (SDF)** website at [[stellar-development-foundation|Stellar Development Foundation]].

The **UNHCR's** use of **blockchain technology** to disburse cash to refugees in **Ukraine** is a game-changer for humanitarian aid. This innovative approach allows for faster, more secure, and more efficient delivery of aid, and has the potential to be scaled up to support millions of people in need. The fact that **UNHCR** has already delivered almost **$5 billion** in cash assistance to **35 million** people in **100 countries** since 2016 demonstrates the agency's commitment to using technology to improve the lives of refugees. For more information on **cash-based interventions**, visit the **UNHCR** website at [[unhcr-cash-based-interventions|UNHCR Cash-Based Interventions]].

The **UNHCR's** use of **blockchain technology** to disburse cash to refugees in **Ukraine** raises several concerns. The use of a **stablecoin** like **USD Coin (USDC)** may not be suitable for all contexts, and the project's reliance on **digital wallets** and **smartphones** may exclude those who do not have access to these technologies. Additionally, the project's focus on **cash-based interventions** may not address the root causes of displacement and may create dependencies on external aid. For more information on the challenges of **refugee assistance**, visit the **UNHCR** website at [[unhcr-refugee-challenges|UNHCR Refugee Challenges]].

Originally reported by UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency