The Trump administration announced plans to restructure the United States Agency for International Development, renaming it and placing it under the State Department.
Plans for USAID Restructuring
According to a memo, the agency will be renamed the US International Humanitarian Assistance and will be placed directly under the Secretary of State. The restructuring includes plans to use blockchain technology to track and secure aid distribution, aiming for increased security and transparency.
Expert Opinions on Blockchain Introduction
Humanitarian aid experts are skeptical about the need for blockchain technology. Linda Raftree, a humanitarian consultant, argues that it's 'a fake technological solution for a problem that doesn't exist.' Giulio Coppi shares similar views, noting no proven effectiveness or cost efficiency.
Challenges and Possible Consequences of Changes
New regulations may include outcome-based funding, which could be challenging to adapt to the unpredictable conditions in disaster zones. Critics see it as part of an attempt to label USAID as inefficient.
The decision to introduce blockchain in humanitarian aid has sparked debate among specialists. Implementing new technologies might complicate the work of small NGOs and change the dynamics of aid provision.
