Blockchain in public administration: areas of opportunity and potential risks

Abstract

The article analyzes the potential of blockchain technology and smart contracts to improve efficiency, transparency, and trust in public administration, as well as the challenges and limitations of their implementation. To this end, it reviews the current legal framework in Ecuador regarding this technology, presents some successful cases at the international level, and explores the possibilities an benefits of this technology to optimize processes and public services in Ecuador. Blockchain technology allows the creation of immutable and decentralized digital records, which increases transparency and reduces the risk of corruption cases. Smart contracts, on the other hand, are self-executing programs that automatically execute when certain predefined conditions are met, allowing processes to be automated and costs to be reduced. The document concludes that blockchain and smart contracts are an innovation that has revolutionized the world of digital transactions and that has multiple applications in various sectors, including the public one. However, it also points out that their implementation requires an adequate legal framework, initiatives, and proposals to promote their development and adoption and a comprehensive, strategic, and multidisciplinary vision. In addition, it is necessary to consider the technical, legal, social, and economic challenges presented by this technology.

Keywords: Blockchain technology, smart contracts, public administration, transparency, automation, regulation, Ecuador.