Blockchain and Protection of Human Rights
Blockchain technology is aimed at setting business contracts, legal agreements, and financial dealings in digital code and stockpile them in visible public catalogs, where they are shielded from erasures, removal, alterations, and adjustments.[1] [2] Initially, this application was utilized only by huge banks, cryptocurrencies, and technology giants. At present, it is being utilized in the protection of human rights. While it does not stop human rights abuses on its own, it opens up business dealings, financial records, and a host of transactions in the supply chain to any interested party for meticulous examination and intelligent analysis.[3]
Using blockchain in protecting workers' human rights[edit]
Business organizations employ blockchain technology to identify “undesirable elements” in their supply chains. Once identified, companies root them out from the organization or provide them incentives so that they do the right processes. Using blockchain, a corporation can readily spot local suppliers who are economically-stressed and reward them for good behavior or assist them in getting access to capital and be able to pay their workers a decent living wage.[4]
Using blockchain can also lead to the implementation of the right labor standards, protect workers’ rights, and eliminate slavery. One way is through naming/classification of worker credentials. Customarily, middlemen and traffickers sequester passports, identification cards and other relevant papers from migrant workers which makes them prisoners of their employers. With the use of a blockchain, a distinct data identifier is connected to any individual, making that person detectable and therefore can be traced, making their employers accountable for them. The latest developments in biometrics like the one in India called Aadhaar system, generates unique worker ID databases that can be monitored by businesses, NGOs and regulatory bodies.
It also facilitates correct and prompt wage payments. Having access to records of digital cash payments or transfers into digital wallets through a blockchain that holds permanent transaction records which includes payment of wages, there is guarantee that workers are being given their wage payments on time and in the correct amounts.
It likewise generates smart contracts. When a worker’s job contract is being posted in a blockchain, it creates transparency about wages, work schedules, and job requisites. It likewise foils possible scams concerning “job placement fees” which normally place workers into debt bondage, where they end up giving back all their earnings to the employer to settle their debts.
The blockchain is also capable of “remote checks” of working environment, conditions, and the welfare of workers through wearable tech and can now be conducted in real-time as these wearable devices are connected through the Internet-of-Things (IoT). Having this kind of data can deter physical whippings, removal of food and water during work, sexual abuse/exploitation and incidents of workers being killed or thrown overboard.[5]
Further readings[edit]
More than money: Blockchain and its applications for human rights protections
Employers Can Use Blockchain to Protect Against Frivolous Discrimination Claims
Beyond the Hype: Blockchain for Humanity
References[edit]
- ↑ Iansiti, Marco and Lakhani, Karim (2017). "The Truth About Blockchain." Harvard Business Review, pp. 118-127. Retrieved 17 August 2018 at https://hbr.org/2017/01/the-truth-about-blockchain
- ↑ Jacobovitz, Ori (2016). Blockchain for Identity Management. The Lynne and William Frankel Center for Computer Science Department of Computer Science, Ben-Gurion University, Beer Sheva, Israel
- ↑ The Guardian (2016). "Blockchain technology trialled to tackle slavery in the fishing industry." Retrieved 17 August 2018 at https://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/2016/sep/07/blockchain-fish-slavery-free-seafood-sustainable-technology
- ↑ Mac McGary, Mac, “Blockchain for good: The human rights supply chain,” International Business Times, 2 March 2018. Retrieved 19 August 2018 from https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/blockchain-good-human-rights-supply-chain-1664917
- ↑ Capri, Alex, “How blockchain could help end modern day slavery in Asia's exploitative seafood industry,” February 2018. Retrieved 19 August 2018 from https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexcapri/2018/02/14/how-blockchain-could-help-end-modern-day-slavery-in-asias-exploitative-seafood-industry/#280d8c1c4b65
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