The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the Blockchain Advisory Group (BAG) on June 3, 2026, during the Proof of Talk 2026 event. The group was established to explore how blockchain technologies can strengthen public systems, enhance digital public infrastructure, and address global development challenges. The initiative brings together 26 member organizations from across the blockchain industry to examine applications in financial inclusion, digital identity, climate finance, and public service delivery.
UNDP Convenes Inaugural Meeting on Financial Inclusion
The inaugural meeting was chaired by Haoliang Xu, Associate Administrator of UNDP, and centered on the topic of financial inclusion and digital finance. Participants examined obstacles that continue to hinder broader adoption of digital financial services, including fragmented payment networks, limitations related to digital identity systems, interoperability concerns, and varying levels of institutional preparedness. Xu stated that blockchain should not be viewed solely as a technological advancement, emphasizing that the more important consideration is whether such innovations can strengthen public systems and generate meaningful development outcomes.
The launch builds upon UNDP's ongoing efforts to evaluate and implement blockchain-based solutions across multiple regions, including Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific. Through partnerships with governments, institutions, and industry stakeholders, the organization has been investigating blockchain applications in areas such as digital payments, climate finance, digital identity, public procurement, traceability systems, and public service delivery.
Alongside the launch, UNDP's AltFinLab hosted a series of activities under the theme Scaling Blockchain for Public Good. The events highlighted practical examples of blockchain and decentralized artificial intelligence solutions. One key session featured the SDG Blockchain Accelerator Impact Showcase, where participants demonstrated projects designed to support sustainable development objectives. Another event involved a public dialogue organized in collaboration with Sciences Po Tech & Global Affairs Innovation Hub, bringing together government representatives, researchers, and blockchain industry leaders to examine opportunities and challenges associated with blockchain adoption in public-sector systems.
Blockchain Advisory Group Includes 26 Industry Organizations
The Blockchain Advisory Group currently includes 26 member organizations representing a diverse range of blockchain ecosystems and technology foundations. Participants include the Ethereum Foundation, Cardano Foundation, Algorand Foundation, Stellar Development Foundation, Avalanche Foundation, Web3 Foundation, and Filecoin Foundation. The participation of these organizations reflects the group's objective of bridging the gap between development priorities and blockchain innovation.
UNDP Announces Biannual Meeting Schedule with Thematic Focus
The Blockchain Advisory Group is expected to convene twice each year, with every meeting focusing on a specific development theme. Planned discussion areas include digital governance and public trust, inclusive legal identity systems, sustainability and climate accountability, financial inclusion, and the future of digital labor. By creating a structured framework for collaboration between development institutions and blockchain innovators, UNDP aims to position blockchain as a key driver of financial inclusion, digital transformation, and sustainable development on a global scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did UNDP launch on June 3, 2026?
UNDP launched the Blockchain Advisory Group (BAG) during the Proof of Talk 2026 event on June 3, 2026. The group brings together 26 member organizations from across the blockchain industry to explore how decentralized technologies can contribute to stronger digital public infrastructure, improved financial inclusion, and solutions to global development challenges.
Which organizations are members of the Blockchain Advisory Group?
The Blockchain Advisory Group includes 26 member organizations, including the Ethereum Foundation, Cardano Foundation, Algorand Foundation, Stellar Development Foundation, Avalanche Foundation, Web3 Foundation, and Filecoin Foundation. These organizations represent a diverse range of blockchain ecosystems and technology foundations.
How often will the Blockchain Advisory Group meet?
The Blockchain Advisory Group is expected to convene twice each year, with every meeting focusing on a specific development theme. Planned discussion areas include digital governance and public trust, inclusive legal identity systems, sustainability and climate accountability, financial inclusion, and the future of digital labor.
