Welcome to Blockchangel: A Call to Action

The Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) has kicked off a competition that’s as tech-savvy as it is necessary. The challenge, named Blockchangel, is calling on innovators of all kinds—think companies, startups, NGOs, and entrepreneurs—to propose ingenious blockchain-based solutions aimed at tackling the alarming rates of violence against women, children, and the elderly in Latin America and the Caribbean.

What is Required?

Before you dive headfirst into the brainstorming pool, there are a few criteria you’ll need to keep your eyes on, much like a hawk watching for a mouse in the grass:

• Prevention Level: We’re looking for solutions that add a layer of protection. This means incorporating geolocation features to spot risk factors connected to violence and crime.
• Control Level: Here, the goal is to help victims be seen and heard. Your project must include robust victim identification methods that trigger timely action protocols based on vulnerability.
• Action Level: No victim left in the shadows! The design must integrate an online registry that holds legal weight and can make a difference when needed.
• Restorative Level: Loneliness has no place here. Your submission should include features for anonymous follow-up and comprehensive support tailored for victims.

The Sweet Rewards of Winning

The prize for your hard work? Winners will get a chance to present their projects for potential co-financing, because let’s face it, funding is vital for turning ideas into impactful realities. And as a cherry on top, the winning project plus the two top-rated submissions will enter the illustrious IDB Group’s network of global innovators, which isn’t just a fancy title; it opens doors to sharing knowledge, best practices, and networking opportunities galore!

The Sad State of Violence in Latin America

Before you get too carried away dreaming up those innovative solutions, take a moment to contemplate the gravity of the situation. According to the IADB, around 300 million children are victims of various forms of violence, almost 15 million of whom have endured sexual abuse. Let that sink in. Furthermore, 1 in 10 elderly individuals have suffered violence, and a staggering 8,000 women have lost their lives to violence in the last two years—statistics that should stir even the most apathetic hearts into action.

Why Blockchain?

So, why the focus on blockchain technology? Well, blockchain offers a decentralized, unalterable record-keeping system that can make a significant difference in transparency and accountability, vital elements in addressing violence and ensuring victims receive the support and justice they deserve. If you’re keen to join the movement and make an impact, now’s the time to put on your thinking cap and get busy!