The Spanish Red Cross has implemented blockchain technology for distributing humanitarian aid

One of the largest international charitable organizations, the Spanish Red Cross, has launched an innovative system called RedChain, which utilizes blockchain technology to optimize the humanitarian aid delivery process. The project was developed jointly with BLOOCK and Billions Network and represents an ambitious attempt to transition the process from fundraising to distribution into a digital environment. This initiative demonstrates the growing interest in applying distributed ledger technology in charitable activities.

How the RedChain System Works: Technology in the Service of Humanity

The core of the system consists of ERC-20 standard tokens deployed on the Ethereum network. They fully replace traditional paper vouchers and prepaid cards previously used for aid distribution. Support recipients can make payments directly through mobile wallets by scanning QR codes at participating merchant partners. This approach not only simplifies the process but also allows real-time tracking of each transaction on the blockchain.

Interestingly, the architecture employs a hybrid approach: some data is stored on the organization’s traditional servers, while other data is recorded on the public Ethereum ledger. Personal information of recipients and their histories remain in secure databases of the Spanish Red Cross, while only transaction hashes, timestamps, and cryptographic proofs of data integrity are recorded on the blockchain.

Transparency Without Compromising Privacy: The Balance in RedChain

This design addresses a critical dilemma faced by charitable organizations. On one hand, full transparency in the use of donated funds is necessary—donors need assurance that their contributions reach those in need. On the other hand, the confidentiality of aid recipients is an important principle that must not be violated. RedChain offers a solution: external observers can verify the integrity of the entire system through the public blockchain without access to the personal data of the beneficiaries.

This project highlights the potential of blockchain not only as a tool for speculative trading but also as a technology capable of solving important social issues. The Spanish Red Cross demonstrates that distributed systems can be used to create more fair, transparent, and secure support ecosystems for populations.