The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the Blockchain Advisory Group (BAG) on June 3, 2026, in Paris during the Proof of Talk 2026 summit. This new group includes 26 leading organizations from the blockchain ecosystem. They will explore how decentralized technologies can tackle urgent development issues, strengthen digital public infrastructure, and improve public systems worldwide.

A Multi-Stakeholder Force for Impact

Chaired by UNDP Associate Administrator Haoliang Xu, the first meeting focused on financial inclusion and digital finance. Participants discussed ongoing challenges such as fragmented payment systems, limited digital identities, interoperability issues, and varying readiness among institutions. The group agreed that blockchain can support existing infrastructure to increase access, improve efficiency, and boost transparency in financial services.

The BAG will meet twice a year, with each session concentrating on a different development priority. Key focus areas include:

1. Public trust and digital governance

2. Inclusive society and legal identity

3. Financial inclusion and digital financial services

4. Sustainability, climate action, and trackable responsibility

5. Digital labor and the future of work

Industry Leaders Join the Cause

The advisory group includes a wide range of members from the blockchain community. Notable members are the Ethereum Foundation, Cardano Foundation, Stellar Development Foundation, Algorand Foundation, Avalanche Foundation, Cosmos (Interchain Foundation), Celo Foundation, Sui Foundation, NEARWeek, Kraken, Cointelegraph, and Web3 Foundation, among others. This variety highlights UNDP’s focus on neutrality and teamwork, bringing together layer-1 protocols, infrastructure providers, impact-driven nonprofits, and media platforms with a common goal: using blockchain for public good.

Building on Years of Blockchain Work

The launch of BAG is not UNDP’s first step into cryptocurrency. In November 2024, the agency launched its Blockchain Academy, providing web3 and blockchain training to nearly 24,000 UN staff worldwide. The Algorand Foundation, now a BAG member, helped develop the academy’s curriculum, reflecting a long-standing partnership. UNDP has also been working on plans for a blockchain academy aimed at government officials and a separate advisory group to support national blockchain adoption.

Why This Matters for Crypto and Development

This moment is significant for the cryptocurrency industry. Blockchain is evolving beyond speculation and decentralized finance. It is increasingly viewed as a tool for digital identity, transparent aid distribution, climate tracking, and inclusive financial systems. For developing countries, the BAG could speed up access to secure, low-cost digital infrastructure, particularly in areas where traditional banking is not available. From issuing verifiable legal identities to tracking carbon credits or distributing humanitarian aid, blockchain’s transparency and durability provide practical solutions.

Looking Ahead

With its twice-a-year meetings and clear themes, the Blockchain Advisory Group aims to quickly turn discussions into actions. UNDP will likely publish joint reports, pilot projects, and policy recommendations based on BAG sessions. This will create a guide for governments and developers to use blockchain responsibly.