Empowering Women Through Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrency by Prof. Nada Mallah Boustani 

Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative force with the ability to alter numerous sectors and empower people all over the world (Gill et Al. 2019). While it has received attention for its function in finance and supply chain management, one component that is sometimes forgotten is its major impact on gender equality. Blockchain, in conjunction with cryptocurrencies, is tearing down barriers and building a more inclusive and equal society (Di Vaio et Al. 2023).

How can blockchain and cryptocurrencies help women gain economic and social empowerment?

1. Financial Inclusion and Access to Cryptocurrency Lack of access to traditional financial services is one of the most serious issues confronting women around the world. However, blockchain-enabled decentralized finance (DeFi) networks powered by cryptocurrencies offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to promote financial inclusion. These platforms enable individuals, especially women, to gain access to financial services without the use of intermediaries or traditional banking infrastructure (Boustani 2022). Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and others enable women to conduct cross-border transactions and easily access global markets. Women in poor countries can engage in the global economy without the same constraints that exist in traditional banking institutions. This financial independence can assist women in breaking out from the cycle of poverty, gaining control over their resources, and investing in their future.
2. Empowerment through Investment Cryptocurrencies not only provide financial inclusion but also enable women to become investors and stakeholders in the burgeoning digital economy. Women have traditionally been underrepresented in investment circles, but with cryptocurrencies, they now have the ability to invest and increase their money independently. Investing in cryptocurrency may be more accessible to women than traditional investing options because the entry barriers are frequently lower (Kamath 2018). This democratization of investment options may result in increased gender diversity in the world of finance, contributing to more inclusive decision-making processes and economic prosperity.
3. Job Opportunities in the Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Industry The blockchain and cryptocurrency industries are rapidly expanding, offering new career opportunities in a variety of industries. Women can engage in this dynamic industry and offer their expertise to its progress. Women can pursue a variety of professions in the business, including blockchain development, cybersecurity, marketing, and community management. We can overcome the gender gap in technology-related disciplines and foster diversity in an industry that has traditionally been dominated by men by encouraging and supporting women’s engagement in this sector (Adams et Al. 2019).
4. Financial Privacy and Security Cryptocurrencies give greater financial privacy and security, which can be particularly beneficial for women facing economic hardships or in abusive situations. Joint accounts or shared access to bank statements in traditional financial systems can endanger vulnerable women. Cryptocurrencies enable financial independence and privacy. Women can securely hold and manage their wealth without the need for third-party intrusion. This greater financial independence can enable women to make decisions that emphasize their safety and well-being (Sai et Al.2019).

We may conclude that blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies have the potential to be transformative forces in the empowerment of women and the promotion of gender equality around the world. Women may break free from old restraints and contribute more actively to the global economy by increasing financial inclusion, economic empowerment, and access to resources. As blockchain and cryptocurrency use grows, it is critical that women participate actively in the creation and implementation of these solutions. Governments, businesses, and organizations must collaborate to establish an inclusive environment that capitalizes on the promise of new technologies to benefit all members of society, regardless of gender.

Finally, by embracing the potential of blockchain and cryptocurrency to empower women, we are taking an important step toward creating a more equal and prosperous society for everybody. It is critical to understand that gender equality is a fundamental human right that benefits societies as a whole, not just women. Blockchain and cryptocurrency provide us with a path to a brighter future in which women can fulfill their full potential and contribute to the growth of our global community.

References:

1. Gill, S. S., Tuli, S., Xu, M., Singh, I., Singh, K. V., Lindsay, D., … & Garraghan, P. (2019). Transformative effects of IoT, Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence on cloud computing: Evolution, vision, trends and open challenges. Internet of Things, 8, 100118.
2. Di Vaio, A., Hassan, R., & Palladino, R. (2023). Blockchain technology and gender equality: A systematic literature review. International Journal of Information Management, 68, 102517
3. Boustani, N. M., & Elisabetta, M. (2022). Smart Insurance Contracts Shielding Pandemic Business Disruption in Developing Countries and Blockchain Solution. FinTech, 1(4), 294-309.
4. Kamath, R. (2018). Blockchain for Women Next Generation for Sustainable Development Goal 5. Asian Development Perspectives, 9(1)
5. Adams, P. R., Frizzo-Barker, J., Ackah, B. B., & Chow-White, P. A. (2019). Making space for women on the blockchain. Blockchain and Web, 3.
6. Sai, A. R., Buckley, J., & Le Gear, A. (2019, March). Privacy and security analysis of cryptocurrency mobile applications. In 2019 fifth conference on mobile and secure services (MobiSecServ) (pp. 1-6). IEEE.