Definition: Blockchain governance refers to the framework and mechanisms put in place to ensure effective collaboration and interoperability among European member states and private companies in the field of IT. It involves establishing rules, standards, and protocols that govern the use, development, and maintenance of blockchain technology within the European Union. This governance framework aims to promote transparency, security, and trust in blockchain-based systems, enabling seamless data exchange and interoperability between member states and private entities. It also addresses issues such as data privacy, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution, ensuring a harmonized approach to blockchain implementation and utilization across Europe. Additional information: Blockchain governance refers to the mechanisms and processes through which decisions are made and rules are established in the context of blockchain technology. In the European Union (EU), blockchain governance plays a crucial role in ensuring interoperability among member states and private companies in the field of information technology (IT). Interoperability refers to the ability of different systems, networks, and platforms to seamlessly exchange and use information. In the EU, achieving interoperability in IT is of paramount importance as it enables efficient and secure communication, data sharing, and collaboration among member states and private entities. The governance of blockchain technology in the EU is primarily driven by the European Commission (EC), which is the executive body responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and ensuring the overall functioning of the EU. The EC recognizes the potential of blockchain technology in enhancing interoperability and has taken several initiatives to promote its adoption and governance. One of the key initiatives is the European Blockchain Services Infrastructure (EBSI), which aims to provide a trusted and secure infrastructure for cross-border digital services in the EU. EBSI facilitates interoperability by establishing common standards, protocols, and frameworks for blockchain-based applications and services. It also promotes the use of decentralized identity, digital signatures, and smart contracts to enable secure and efficient transactions. The governance of EBSI involves collaboration between the EC, member states, and private companies. The EC sets the strategic direction and provides funding for the infrastructure, while member states contribute to the development and implementation of interoperable solutions. Private companies, including blockchain technology providers and service providers, play a crucial role in developing and maintaining the technical aspects of the infrastructure. To ensure effective governance, the EC engages in consultations with stakeholders, including member states, private companies, and civil society organizations. These consultations help in identifying the needs, challenges, and opportunities related to blockchain interoperability. The EC also encourages the participation of industry experts and researchers in shaping the governance framework. In addition to EBSI, the EU has also established the European Blockchain Partnership (EBP) to promote collaboration among member states in the development and deployment of blockchain-based solutions. The EBP focuses on areas such as digital identity, regulatory compliance, supply chain management, and intellectual property rights. It facilitates the exchange of best practices, knowledge sharing, and joint projects among member states and private companies. The governance of blockchain interoperability in the EU is guided by principles such as transparency, accountability, inclusivity, and privacy. The EC ensures that the decision-making processes are transparent and involve all relevant stakeholders. It also emphasizes the importance of accountability by regularly monitoring and evaluating the implementation of interoperability solutions. Privacy is a critical aspect of blockchain governance, and the EU has enacted the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to safeguard the rights and privacy of individuals. Blockchain-based systems must comply with GDPR requirements, such as data minimization, purpose limitation, and individual consent. Overall, the blockchain governance regarding European IT interoperability among member states and private companies is a collaborative effort involving the European Commission, member states, and private entities. It aims to establish common standards, protocols, and frameworks to enable secure and efficient communication, data sharing, and collaboration in the EU. Example: One example of the application of blockchain governance in European IT interoperability among member states and private companies is the European Blockchain Services Infrastructure (EBSI). EBSI is a blockchain-based platform developed by the European Commission to enable secure and trusted cross-border digital services within the European Union. EBSI aims to facilitate interoperability among member states and private companies by providing a common infrastructure for sharing and verifying data across borders. It allows different entities to securely exchange information and transactions using blockchain technology, ensuring transparency, immutability, and trust in the data exchanged. Another example is the use of blockchain governance in supply chain management. Blockchain can be utilized to establish a trusted and transparent supply chain network among member states and private companies. By recording every transaction and movement of goods on a blockchain, it becomes easier to track and verify the origin, authenticity, and quality of products. This enhances interoperability and trust among different entities involved in the supply chain, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards. Furthermore, blockchain governance can be applied in the field of digital identity management. Member states and private companies can collaborate to develop a blockchain-based identity verification system that allows individuals to securely and easily prove their identity across different platforms and services. This interoperable digital identity infrastructure can streamline processes, reduce fraud, and enhance privacy and security. Overall, blockchain governance can play a crucial role in promoting European IT interoperability by providing a trusted and transparent framework for data exchange, supply chain management, and digital identity verification among member states and private companies. LOST view: TVA-Governance Architecture Principles Identifier: http://data.europa.eu/dr8/egovera/BlockChainGovernanceBusinessObject EIRA traceability: eira:DigitalGovernancePlanBusinessObject ABB name: egovera:BlockChainGovernanceBusinessObject EIRA concept: eira:ArchitectureBuildingBlock Last modification: 2023-05-22 dct:identifier: http://data.europa.eu/dr8/egovera/BlockChainGovernanceBusinessObject dct:title: BlockChain Governance