- The Blockchain Association said blockchain has helped activists and aid groups access funding in restrictive countries.
- The group urged Congress to pass the CLARITY Act to provide clearer crypto regulations and support innovation.
- The article argued open blockchain networks offer an alternative where governments restrict traditional financial systems.
The Blockchain Association highlighted a new article from leaders at the National Endowment for Democracy, arguing that blockchain technology has supported democratic movements in restrictive countries. According to the association, the article also urges Congress to pass the CLARITY Act, saying clearer crypto regulations would strengthen innovation while supporting financial access through decentralized networks.
Article Highlights Crypto Use Under Restrictions
According to the Blockchain Association, National Endowment for Democracy President Damon Wilson and former U.S. official Juan Zarate described how digital assets have helped communities operating under authoritarian governments.
The article cited examples from Venezuela, Afghanistan, Belarus, and Nigeria. It said activists, journalists, educators, and humanitarian workers continued receiving financial support after governments restricted banking services or controlled payment systems.
According to the authors, the National Endowment for Democracy uses dollar-backed stablecoins to distribute resources in remote and heavily restricted regions. They added that blockchain technology allows internet users to access financial services more quickly and securely than traditional payment networks.
Authors Call For Regulatory Clarity
Building on those examples, the authors argued that decentralized financial tools have become important where democratic freedoms face restrictions. They said authoritarian governments have used traditional financial infrastructure to freeze accounts, block payments, monitor transactions, and restrict access to financial services.
According to the Blockchain Association, open blockchain networks offer an alternative when centralized payment systems become unavailable. The organization said developers need predictable regulations to continue building blockchain applications in the United States.
The association therefore renewed its support for the CLARITY Act. It said the proposed legislation would provide regulatory certainty while preserving consumer protections and market integrity.
Focus Turns To Global Financial Competition
The Blockchain Association also said regulatory clarity would strengthen the United States’ role in shaping digital finance. According to the organization, innovation and national security remain closely connected as financial technology evolves.
The article also stated that China, Russia, and other governments continue promoting central bank digital currencies. According to the authors, democratic nations should instead support financial systems built on openness, transparency, and clear regulatory frameworks while Congress considers the CLARITY Act.
