I wish I could share your optimism. You're absolutely right in saying that blockchain technology being implemented in all sorts of areas would improve our lives, but I'm afraid that the powers-that-be do not care about that. Governments worldwide have zero interest in transparency, as for global conversation and facilitating the free exchange of ideas, no way. It is doable, a grassroots movement could change things, but it won't be easy.
Very difficult indeed which is why I think less worry about the competition and more thought into pulling people in to the mix at real world levels.