Blockchain for government organizations: past, present and future

Purpose Blockchain is widely applied in e-voting, shared economy areas and other government functioning. Fragmented findings and distributed literature need consolidation for a holistic view of the research domain. The purpose of this study is to comprehensively reviews the blockchain applications for government organizations and presents the past, present and future trends of blockchain applications for government organizations. Design/methodology/approach Systematic review protocol instrumentalized the systematic review of research articles published from 2013 to 2021. Science mapping discerns scientific actors’ trends and performance analysis like most influential authors, documents and sources. Content analysis of selected data set unfolds the past, present and future of blockchain applications for government organizations. Findings Blockchain technology offers enormous potential for the transformation of government organizations and public services. The primary areas are cryptocurrency, e-voting, shared economy, smart contracts, financial and health services, tourism, logistics and water sustainability. Research limitations/implications This study reviewed only published research in journals and conference proceedings and excluded book reviews, book chapters and editorials from the review set. This study persuades governments and policymakers to invest in blockchain technology for transforming government organizations and public services. Practical implications This study highlights the importance of blockchain in government-controlled public departments, enhancing transparency and efficiency in public life. Social implications Blockchain technology enhances transparency, traceability and accountability of public records. Originality/value This study pioneers in chronologically highlighting the importance of blockchain in government-controlled public departments.