The Role of International Human Rights Law at the Intersection of FinTech, Financial Inclusion, and Sustainable Development 

PI: Prof. Douglas Arner, HKU
Co-I: Dr. Kuzi Charamba, HKU

Project Abstract:

This research proposal seeks to apply a human rights-based approach to initiatives at the intersection of financial technology (FinTech), financial inclusion, and sustainable development. Studies at the intersection of these three subjects are nascent, particularly from a legal perspective, and have the potential to advance attainment of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the design and development of appropriate digital financial ecosystems. However, missing from this design is a consideration of how individuals’ human rights may be impacted by this kind of systemic intervention. As the world grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic and the revelation of stark socioeconomic inequities within and across societies, there are greater calls and moves towards the introduction of human rights responsibilities and obligations for private actors. Achieving public social welfare through the protection of human rights is increasingly seen as a shared responsibility between the public and private sectors. Consequently, we propose the development of a human rights rubric through which FinTech developmental interventions can be planned to ensure responsible innovation.