The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is studying the application of Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZK-proofs) technology to establish a decentralized digital identity (DID) mechanism to protect refugees. The aim is to assist in the rapid and secure verification of refugee identities, particularly when crossing borders.
The UNHCR’s mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and obtain safe refuge in another country. The organization is currently researching the implementation of a decentralized digital identity mechanism using Zero-Knowledge Proofs.
ZK-proofs are cryptographic protocols that allow one party to prove the truth of a statement to another party without sharing any content of the statement. This technology is often integrated into digital identity solutions to ensure the ability to prove someone’s identity without requiring the verifying party or any other entity to view the original documents.
Zero-Knowledge Proofs are crucial for safeguarding refugee safety. Carmen Hett, the Financial Controller of UNHCR, pointed out that one of the main challenges refugees face is how to prove their claimed identities, as typically their governments hold the key to verifying their identities. She further emphasized that when refugees cross borders, different countries have different laws, so it is crucial to have a system that can ensure the security and trustworthiness of their identities.
Hett stated that the implementation of ZK-proofs can ensure the safety of refugees when crossing borders. Refugees who are unable to prove their identities may ultimately be restricted from accessing banking services, employment opportunities, and other rights, benefits, and services in their host countries.
Hett also expressed the need for regulatory bodies to make more efforts to promote the adoption of ZK-proofs technology. Furthermore, UNHCR is also working on enhancing the financial and digital literacy of refugees to prepare them for future cross-border living and enable them to safely carry money.
UNHCR has adopted the Stellar payment network to assist Ukrainian refugees. On December 15, 2022, UNHCR launched a blockchain-based cash assistance intervention program aimed at providing aid to Ukrainian refugees affected by the war and displacement. The program utilizes the payment solution of Stellar and transfers USDC stablecoin to digital wallets that refugees can use.
UNHCR’s blockchain-based solution project received the “Best Impact Project Award” at the 2023 Paris Blockchain Week. This recognition not only acknowledges UNHCR’s relentless efforts in exploring innovative solutions to assist refugees and forcibly displaced persons but also recognizes its achievements in the field of humanitarian aid.
During this year’s Consensus conference, Hett expressed her affirmation of the adoption of digital wallets in promoting inclusive finance:
[Image: A quote by Carmen Hett: “Digital wallets can promote inclusive finance.”]
Related Reports:
– United Nations Forms Blockchain Group! Will Develop Standards for AI, Digital Identity, etc. May Discuss at the October Kyoto Annual Meeting.
– UNICEF Builds DAO and Cryptocurrency Fund! Pilot Project to Be Conducted on Polygon.
Tags: DID, stellar, UNHCR, zero-knowledge proofs, ZK, decentralized digital identity, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Zero-Knowledge Proofs.