Developing Blockchain-Based Framework for Sustainable Management and Stewardship of Indigenous Knowledge Systems

Abstract

Blockchain technology offers promising solutions to some of the challenges that IKS face, such as secure long-term preservation. This study aims to develop a blockchain-based framework for sustainable management and preservation of Indigenous knowledge systems. A qualitative document analysis is adopted in this study, which is based on a critical literature review on how blockchain technology can be leveraged to enhance the digital preservation of IKS. The findings revealed that innovative technologies possess attractive solutions to both revitalize, manage and preserve IKS, although there are some risks to be shrouded such as data loss due to system failure and cyberattacks. Blockchain technology offers promising solutions to some of the challenges that IKS face, such as secure long-term preservation. The study further established that the Indigenous data sovereignty can inform the design of the blockchain-based framework by ensuring that Indigenous communities remain in charge of their resources that are expressed in digital formats. This study adds to the existing body of knowledge by proposing a framework that is built on blockchain technology to serve as a guide in designing and developing secure and sustainable digital IKS preservation solutions. This framework places Indigenous communities at the core of all digitization processes so that they direct and control the implementation of blockchain technology to ensure that it aligns with their values and priorities. In addition, placing Indigenous communities at the center of building digital systems ensures that they remain the sole proprietors of their resources. The study recommended that the capacity building and digital literacy be provided, given that blockchain technology requires expertise to implement and manage it. Furthermore, the implementation of blockchain-based framework should be led by Indigenous communities, allowing them to test, refine and adapt the technologies to diverse local contexts and specific IKS domains.