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The Spanish branch of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent, known as Creu Roja, has decided to completely overhaul its work processes by implementing cutting-edge technology. The key element was the RedChain platform, built on the basis of blockchain, a distributed registry technology. Two companies were involved in the development: BLOOCK from Barcelona, specializing in infrastructure solutions, and Billions Network, experts in the field of verification using zero-disclosure methods.

The main goal is to create a single digital system that would cover the entire cycle of work with humanitarian aid. The system should record all stages: from the moment of receiving a donation from an individual or company to the distribution of funds or resources among those to whom they are intended. The main task is to balance the transparency of all transactions (for reporting purposes) and the confidentiality of personal data of aid recipients.

A hybrid data architecture was used for this. Confidential information (names, addresses, contacts, health or social status information) they are stored on secure Creu Roja servers, isolated from external access. Only encrypted transaction data gets into the public blockchain – unique amounts, like digital fingerprints. Each operation (allocation of funds or provision of services) receives such a label over time. This creates an immutable chain of evidence for actions without revealing their essence.

The platform allows you to make sure that funds have been received, directed to the right project, and payments or purchases have been made within the framework of this project. The donor sees anonymized but confirmed facts: the amount allocated to help refugees, the date of transfer and execution. At the same time, neither the donor, nor the auditor, nor the system operators can link this data to specific people. Privacy is protected by the very structure of the system.

The project shows that financial transparency and personal information protection are not mutually exclusive things. The blockchain for recording immutable labels, combined with storing personal data in a secure environment, creates a new standard of work. This can increase the credibility of charities by giving donors the opportunity to verify and recipients of assistance the security guarantees.