UNDP launches Blockchain Advisory Group to explore blockchain for public good

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) officially introduced the Blockchain Advisory Group (BAG) on June 3, 2026, during the Proof of Talk 2026 conference in Paris. The initiative brings together leading blockchain organizations and industry experts to examine how blockchain technology can contribute to solving global development challenges, enhancing digital public infrastructure, and improving public sector systems.

The first meeting, led by Haoliang Xu, UNDP Associate Administrator, centered on financial inclusion and digital finance. Participants discussed key obstacles limiting access to financial services, such as fragmented payment networks, digital identity limitations, interoperability issues, and institutional preparedness. The group explored how blockchain can strengthen existing infrastructure by improving transparency, expanding accessibility, and increasing operational efficiency.

Speaking at the launch, Haoliang Xu emphasized that while blockchain technology continues to evolve rapidly, its real value lies in its ability to deliver stronger public services and create meaningful social and environmental impact. He noted that the advisory group will serve as a collaborative platform where development organizations and blockchain stakeholders can exchange knowledge and identify practical use cases that generate public value.

The creation of BAG builds on UNDP's ongoing efforts to leverage blockchain for sustainable development and digital transformation. Across regions including Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and Central Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Middle East, UNDP is partnering with governments and industry participants to explore blockchain applications in digital payments, financial inclusion, digital identity, climate finance, supply chain traceability, public procurement, and public service delivery. These initiatives are highlighted in UNDP's publication, "New Tech, New Partners: Transforming Development in the Digital Era."

As part of the launch, AltFinLab, UNDP's innovation platform focused on finance and emerging technologies, hosted a series of events under the theme "Scaling Blockchain for Public Good." Activities included the SDG Blockchain Accelerator Impact Showcase, which presented blockchain and decentralized AI projects progressing toward real-world implementation. UNDP also partnered with the Sciences Po Tech & Global Affairs Innovation Hub to organize a public discussion involving government representatives, researchers, blockchain leaders, and development experts on the role of blockchain in public services and financial inclusion.

Going forward, the Blockchain Advisory Group will meet twice each year to address major development priorities, including digital governance, public trust, legal identity, financial inclusion, sustainable development, climate responsibility, and the future of digital work. Each session will focus on a dedicated theme, encouraging collaboration between UNDP and blockchain stakeholders to transform discussions into actionable initiatives.

The advisory group currently consists of 26 organizations representing various segments of the blockchain industry. Members include the Algorand Foundation, Arbitrum Foundation, Avalanche Foundation, Blockchain for Good Alliance, Blockchain for Impact, Cardano Foundation, Celo Foundation, Cointelegraph, Interchain Foundation (Cosmos), Dfinity Foundation, Dubai Blockchain Centre, Ethereum Foundation, Exponential Science Foundation, Filecoin Foundation, FLock.io, Funding the Commons, Giveth, InfStones, Kraken, NEARWeek, Nordic Blockchain Association, Partisia Blockchain Foundation, Stellar Development Foundation, Sui Foundation, The Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi, and the Web3 Foundation.

Voice Of Osiz

The launch of the UNDP Blockchain Advisory Group marks a significant milestone in accelerating blockchain adoption for public good. As governments and global institutions increasingly recognize blockchain's potential, the focus is shifting toward scalable, transparent, and inclusive digital infrastructure. At Osiz, we believe blockchain will play a pivotal role in transforming financial services, digital identity, public governance, and sustainable development initiatives. This collaborative approach reinforces the growing demand for enterprise-grade blockchain solutions that deliver measurable social and economic impact. By combining innovation with real-world applications, blockchain is evolving into a trusted foundation for next-generation public systems. Organizations that embrace this transformation today will be better positioned to lead the future of digital governance and global development.

Source: Undp.org