Chapter 5: Inclusion and Web3

This chapter critically examines the impact of Web3 technologies on financial, digital, and future-focused inclusion through three case studies: El Salvador’s adoption of Bitcoin, Soulbound tokens for digital identity, and the Helium network for decentralised wireless infrastructure and environmental monitoring. By applying an insider–outsider lens, the chapter reveals the complex dynamics of inclusion and exclusion in Web3 initiatives, highlighting the gap between decentralisation promises and real-world implementation. The analysis demonstrates how top-down technological solutions can create new forms of exclusion, particularly when they fail to consider local needs and practices. The chapter also explores the potential of Web3 to transcend human-centric paradigms and include non-human actors in digital ecosystems. Policy recommendations provided address the identified challenges, emphasising the need for context-sensitive implementation and careful regulation. The chapter concludes by advocating for a nuanced understanding of Web3 technologies that recognises both their transformative potential and limitations. It sets the stage for discussing the future of Web3 in creating a more inclusive digital landscape that not only expands human access but also fosters sustainable coexistence with our planet’s ecosystems, challenging us to reimagine digital infrastructure beyond purely human interests.