UNDP expands Stellar-based blockchain payments into global operations after pilots cut Aleppo costs from 10% to 2%.
UNDP Eurasia, UNDP AltFinLab, and the Stellar Development Foundation have signed a new blockchain payments agreement.
The deal moves Stellar-based payment tools closer to regular UNDP country office use.
The agreement follows more than one year of testing in several countries. These trials included Haiti, Syria, Kenya, Guatemala, and The Gambia.
Additional prototypes were also developed in Colombia and Papua New Guinea. Together, these programs helped UNDP assess blockchain payments for field operations.
The agreement runs through 2027 and includes a full scaling plan. It also marks a move from pilot projects toward formal payment infrastructure.
Stellar Payments Shift Into UNDP Operations
The new agreement creates a payment framework for UNDP country offices worldwide. It is designed to support daily operations, not only limited trials.
As a result, blockchain payments may enter more regular aid delivery systems. The work follows 16 months of joint research and field testing.
It also builds on the SDG Blockchain Accelerator program. That program connected Stellar-based payment tools with real humanitarian payment needs.
UNDP said blockchain payments can improve transparency and access in fragile regions. They can also lower costs in areas with weak banking systems.
Therefore, the framework focuses on practical payments in difficult operating conditions.
Aleppo Pilot Shows Lower Payment Costs
One major field test took place in Aleppo, where UNDP used Stellar-based payment rails.
The pilot supported digital Cash-for-Work payments to local beneficiaries. It tested whether blockchain payments could work in low-connectivity areas.
The Aleppo pilot reduced transaction costs from about 10% to about 2%. It also recorded a 100% payment success rate during the test.
In addition, beneficiaries received funds with near-instant settlement. The system also provided on-chain transparency for every payment made.
This allowed disbursements to be tracked more clearly by program teams. Consequently, the pilot gave UNDP useful data for wider deployment.
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2027 Plan Expands Blockchain Aid Tools
The agreement includes a scaling framework that runs through 2027. It also includes an operational handover for UNDP country offices.
This structure is designed to support long-term use across global programs. Stellar’s network supports low-cost cross-border transfers and traceable payment flows.
These features can help aid programs reach areas with limited banking access. They also support payments where traditional transfer systems may be slower.
UNDP has formed a Blockchain Advisory Group with 26 organizations. The group includes major blockchain foundations and other sector participants.
It will review blockchain use in public services, identity systems, and climate programs.
