UNHCR Advocates for Decentralized Identity via Zero-Knowledge Proofs to Safeguard Refugees
Summary:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is focusing on decentralized identity through zero-knowledge proofs (ZK-proofs) to ensure the safety of refugee identities during border crossings. The UNHCR Treasurer emphasizes the necessity for a reliable system to guarantee identity security. The lack of proved identity could prevent refugees from accessing essential services in their asylum countries. Hett suggests ZK-proofs as an effective solution for proving one’s identity without revealing its content. The UNHCR is also enhancing the financial and digital literacy of refugees, preparing them for future movements and promoting financial inclusion.
The significance of decentralized identity, facilitated by zero-knowledge proofs (ZK-proofs), to the safety of refugees on cross-border movements, has been highlighted by a United Nations agency's treasurer. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is currently working on constructing an identity infrastructure to guarantee swift and verified identity migration for refugees, according to Carmen Hett, Treasurer of the Division of Financial and Administrative Management for UNHCR.
The lack of reliable identity verification is a known hurdle for refugees, as typically, the confirmation of their identity lies with the government of their home country. A panel discussion was hosted including representatives from UNHCR, World Trade Organization, and International Telecommunication Union, facilitated by Kristina Cornèr, editor-in-chief of Cointelegraph.
Hett expressed that while moving across borders, refugees face distinct laws in every nation. She emphasized the importance of having a trustworthy system, which the UNHCR can vouch for, that ensures safety and security of identities to protect people in jeopardy.
Hett further suggested the integration of ZK-proofs to bolster the security of refugees in transit. Without an acknowledged identity, refugees may face considerable hurdles in accessing banking services, job opportunities, and other basic services and facilities in their asylum country, outlines Concordium.
ZK-proofs, which are encrypted protocols that allow proving the truth of a statement without revealing its contents, could be an effective solution in this context, Hett argued. These protocols are commonly used in digital identity solutions to validate identity without requiring verifier or any other party to view the original documentation.
However, Hett highlighted the need for additional regulatory action to enhance the adoption of such solutions.
Tasked with the responsibility to assist and safeguard refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people, the UNHCR in December 2022 initiated a cash-based pilot project which facilitated access to USD Coin (USDC) stablecoin in wallets for Ukrainian refugees displaced due to the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
This initiative gave the refugees an easy access to fiat currency, explained Hett. The UNHCR also focuses on improving the financial and digital literacy of displaced refugees, preparing them for future cross-border movements and enabling them to securely carry money in their digital wallets.
Hett applauded the efficiency, accuracy, and transparency of blockchain-enabled aid delivery which can reach those in need across the globe in minutes. Additionally, she stressed the value of having a portable digital wallet to promote financial inclusion and instill digital literacy.
Published At
12/22/2023 5:07:19 AM
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