The safety and security of women in today's society is of paramount concern, given the myriad of challenges and threats they face. In response to these pressing issues, this chapter explores the convergence of technology and social welfare through the lens of “Mobile Apps Using Blockchain for Women's Safety.” The chapter commences by illuminating the gravity of the problem, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions. It delves into the fundamental aspects of blockchain technology, elucidating its decentralized, transparent, and secure nature, highlighting why it is aptly suited to address women's safety concerns.
Top1. Introduction
In an era of remarkable technological advancement, the quest for a safer world remains a compelling and urgent concern. Within this overarching pursuit, the safety and well-being of women have emerged as a critical focal point, deserving both our undivided attention and innovative solutions. The global narrative resounds with the call for women's safety— a call echoed not only by activists but by society as a whole.
Women's safety is not just a localized issue; it is a universal imperative. The statistics (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, 2022) tell a sobering tale—every day, countless women face a myriad of threats, ranging from physical violence to harassment, both in the public and private spheres. Innumerable stories of anguish and trauma illustrate the depth of this issue, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. It is a challenge that demands collective action and the harnessing of every available resource Yet, in the midst of adversity, technology has emerged as an unwavering ally—a beacon of hope that can illuminate the path towards a safer world. This chapter embarks on a journey to explore the convergence of innovation and social welfare, the synergistic marriage of mobile apps and blockchain technology, to address the pressing concern of women's safety.
1.1 Unveiling the Crisis: Women's Safety in a Modern World
Before delving into the solutions, it is imperative to acknowledge the gravity of the problem at hand. Women's safety, an issue that affects a staggering proportion of our global population, is not confined to a particular corner of the world. It is a pervasive and deeply entrenched problem that spans continents, cultures, and socioeconomic strata.
Consider, for a moment, the staggering statistics. As UN Women reports, 45% of women and young girls experienced a form of violence during the pandemic (UN Women 2022). On a daily basis, thousands of women experience harassment, assault, or violence, leaving them scarred physically and emotionally. The fear of venturing out alone at night, the apprehension of using public transport, and the anxiety of navigating certain spaces are feelings many women grapple with regularly. These challenges have real and profound consequences, limiting opportunities and curtailing the freedom of countless individuals.
This issue is not merely about physical safety; it is a matter of dignity, equality, and human rights. It is a challenge that transcends the boundaries of age, race, and class, affecting women from all walks of life. It is a societal problem that necessitates a societal solution.
1.2 The Role of Technology
Amidst these challenges, technology emerges as a formidable force for change. Mobile applications and blockchain technology, two pillars of the digital age, hold the promise of fundamentally reshaping the landscape of women's safety. They offer not only tools to empower women but also a mechanism to hold wrongdoers accountable.
The use of mobile apps and blockchain in addressing women's safety issues is not just a matter of convenience; it is an imperative born of necessity. The mobile phone, ubiquitous in our daily lives, has become a powerful tool for communication and assistance (Dhruv Chand et al., 2015). When coupled with the security and transparency of blockchain technology, it becomes a beacon of hope for women seeking safety in an often-perilous world.
In the pages that follow, we embark on a journey to explore the myriad ways in which these technologies can serve as beacons of hope, offering innovative solutions to enhance women's safety. We delve into the applications, benefits, challenges, and future prospects of mobile apps using blockchain in the noble pursuit of a world where every woman can walk without fear and live without constraint.
2. Literature Review
The intersection of technology and women's safety has given rise to an array of innovative solutions, notably in the form of mobile applications and blockchain technology. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the field, it is crucial to review the key studies and research that have paved the way for the adoption of these technologies in enhancing women's safety.