In this article, Wendy D. Chen and Ilia Murtazashvili give an overview of their research published in Public Administration Review, “Crisis Management”
Blockchains are distributed ledgers that record transactions or information in a way that is open, immutable, and authenticated by a network of computers. The researchers consider how blockchains can be used to convey risk information, prevent corruption and fraud, streamline emergency funds distribution, and track resource allocation in disaster response. The authors consider the technology’s limitations; given that it is not yet widely deployed, it faces challenges such as training, privacy, digital inclusion, and cost-effectiveness. The authors argue blockchains can improve communication, trust, and equity in disaster management by providing transparent and secure data sharing and verification. Overall, the authors conclude that this technology’s potential justifies further research to explore its potential and best practices.
Click here to read the full story from the London School of Economics