Cardano Governance
The Chang hard fork in 2024 activated CIP-1694, making Cardano one of the first blockchains with genuine on-chain constitutional governance. ADA holders now vote directly on protocol changes, treasury withdrawals, and constitutional amendments.
Three Pillars of Governance
Cardano governance is distributed across three distinct bodies, each with its own role and accountability.
Constitutional Committee (CC)
An elected group of delegates who review proposals against the Cardano Constitution. They can veto unconstitutional changes. Currently 7 members.
Delegated Representatives (DReps)
Any ADA holder can register as a DRep or delegate their voting power to one. DReps vote on governance actions on behalf of their delegators.
Stake Pool Operators (SPOs)
SPOs have voting rights on certain governance actions, particularly hard forks and protocol parameter changes that affect the network infrastructure.
Types of Governance Actions
Any on-chain change to Cardano must be submitted as a governance action and voted on by the three governance bodies.
How to Participate
Every ADA holder has a voice. Choose the level of participation that suits you.
Become a DRep
Register on-chain and receive delegated voting power. Costs a small ADA deposit. You vote on behalf of your delegators.
Delegate to a DRep
Choose a DRep who shares your values and delegate your ADA's voting power. Your ADA stays in your wallet — only the voting power is delegated.
Vote Directly
If you prefer, vote on governance actions yourself without delegating. Full sovereignty over your governance participation.
Intersect MBO
The Member-Based Organization coordinating Cardano's technical roadmap and governance infrastructure.
Intersect is the Member-Based Organization coordinating Cardano's technical roadmap and governance infrastructure. It runs working groups, manages CIP processes, and supports the Constitutional Convention. Intersect does not control Cardano — it serves as a coordination layer that helps the community govern itself more effectively. Membership is open to individuals and organizations who want to shape Cardano's future.
Ready to go deeper into Cardano governance?