Blockchain based solutions in #InternationalDevelopment seem to slowly pass the trough of disillusionment, entering the slope of enlightenment, following the Cycle of Overblown Hopes and Shattered Dreams defined by a large research and advisory firm.

But that does not mean the same mechanisms may again kick in that lead to the overstated expectations of the hype phase.

In the field of humanitarian aid, the paper ‘Conjuring a Blockchain Pilot: Ignorance and Innovation in Humanitarian Aid’, describes the mechanisms that came into play during the initial hype surrounding blockchain technology. While I do not agree with all of the paper’s arguments, I believe it provides a concise description of the dynamics within the sector that is also relevant to development cooperation.

In the end, technology should not be first; it should be critically assessed, even if one is confident about the opportunities in selected use cases. And design should start with the people and communities, which the support should help to improve their living and create opportunities. #FutureOfCooperation #blockchain #web3