Unpacking the complexities of blockchain adoption in public administration

Blockchain technology has been recognized as a transformative tool with the potential to enhance transparency, efficiency, and trust within public administration processes. Within the Mexican Public Administration, various initiatives have aimed to integrate blockchain into Information Technology (IT) systems to streamline operations and combat corruption without success. Through a qualitative analysis of interviews and case studies, this chapter underscores the complex interplay of sociopolitical dynamics and technological innovation in public administration contexts, revealing insights into various obstacles to blockchain adoption. Obstacles are related to existing power structures, regulatory ambiguities, and insufficient political will. These findings suggest that successful blockchain implementation requires a holistic approach that addresses not only the technological aspects but also the underlying sociopolitical context, emphasizing the need for robust governance frameworks, capacity building initiatives, and clear regulatory guidelines to overcome these significant hurdles.