Research

The UPU works with its members and various international organizations to better understand the contribution of postal networks to financial inclusion. The UPU’s financial inclusion research includes collaboration with the World Bank, UN Women, the International Telecommunication Union and the International Labour Organization.  

The "Blockchain Blueprint series" is a comprehensive step-by-step guide exploring the practical application of blockchain and distributed ledger technologies (DLTs) for postal services. 

The blueprint is a companion document to the study Blockchains for a Sustainable Postal Future, which is aimed at enhancing financial inclusion, providing insights into innovative strategies for using blockchain to facilitate cost-effective remittances, manage digital identities, and support direct cash transfer projects. The publication highlights the potential of blockchain to offer secure, fast, low-cost solutions, especially beneficial for unbanked and underbanked populations, positioning designated operators at the forefront of digital financial services transformation. This blueprint is an essential read for postal operators and stakeholders interested in leveraging blockchain for societal and operational advancement.

The Global Panorama on Postal Financial Inclusion 2023 reveals that Posts around the world have significantly expanded access to inclusive financial services for unserved and underserved populations. Digital postal financial services, powered by partnerships, have enabled Posts to enhance all of their services since 2016. As of 2023, Posts empower 1.2 billion people across the globe by providing access to savings accounts that safeguard their finances. 

More than 90% of Posts worldwide provide financial services, with over 80% of post offices located in rural areas. Through their infrastructure and workforce, Posts ensure financial access for customers in remote, rural and traditionally marginalized/underserved communities, delivering doorstep banking services to vulnerable populations in emerging and advanced economies alike. 

The Global Panorama study also found that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Posts provided essential governmental payment and financial services directly to citizens, and  that they continue to deliver various government disbursements, including social welfare and pension payments, in the wake of the pandemic.

Further information on the key indicators of the Global Panorama on Postal Financial Inclusion 2023 can be found in the report.