Introduction to the special issue: Blockchains and public administration

Abstract

Blockchains are peer-to-peer networks that record and track transactions in distributed ledgers. Cryptocurrencies were the first application of the technology. Since then, blockchains have been heralded as a novel institutional technology that can rival firms and governments in terms of certain coordination and production functions. Given initial applications in the public sector, the study of blockchains for public administration presents considerable opportunity to interested scholars for development and clarification. This special issue on “Blockchains in Public Administration” is a response to this gap. This thematic introduction to the special issue reviews the initial views of blockchains as an alternative to government. We then describe several areas where governments have begun to use blockchains. Our review of these applications emphasize opportunities for public administration scholars and practitioners to add to the ongoing conversation on the impact of blockchain on society.