World Identity Network (WIN) has partnered with blockchain startup ConsenSys to design and implement a blockchain pilot to combat child trafficking in Moldova.

Launched in July 2018, the World Identity Network (WIN) aims to catalyze progress towards universal ID and robust, secure, digital identification systems using 21st century technology solutions, such as the distributed ledger technology (DLT). In its media release, WIN said that the pilot project is part of broader initiative with the United Nations Office of Information and Communications Technology (UN-OICT), the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), and the government of Moldova.

"We're proud to be working with ConsenSys on designing and implementing a blockchain-based ID system that will be used to solve some of the most pressing issues humanity faces today," says Mariana Dahan, Founder and CEO of World Identity Network (WIN). "Technology itself is not a silver bullet, nor the single answer to the humanitarian challenges we face. But it can act as a catalyst and provide incentives for collaboration."

The partners recognize the need for enhanced collaboration with a broad range of stakeholders, each bringing their unique perspective to the issue. The blockchain solutions, designed in collaboration with multiple stakeholders, are aimed to help the government of Moldova.

According to United Nations statistics, nearly 230 million of the world's children under the age of five have never been recorded, and are, therefore, easy prey for human traffickers. With blockchain solutions, there is now a significantly higher chance of catching traffickers and securing data on an immutable ledger, further making any such trafficking attempts more traceable and preventable.

"ConsenSys is honored to have been selected to support this critical initiative of the World Identity Network (WIN). The Ethereum platform has a unique ability to create blockchain-based identity systems that could alleviate the systemic causes of human trafficking. The power of distributed networks makes it virtually impossible for data on the system to be improperly manipulated by unauthorized actors,” Joseph Lubin, co-Founder of Ethereum and Founder of ConsenSys, said.

ConsenSys won the "Blockchain for Humanity" Global Challenge, a competition organized by the WIN in conjunction with several United Nations agencies, the release said.