Definition ∞ Accountable delegation involves assigning responsibilities to another party while retaining ultimate liability for outcomes. In blockchain contexts, this means a primary entity remains responsible for the actions of its delegated participants. This structure ensures that even when tasks are distributed, a clear line of responsibility persists, upholding system integrity. It often includes mechanisms for penalizing the delegator if their chosen delegate acts maliciously or fails to perform.
Context ∞ The discussion surrounding accountable delegation frequently centers on proof-of-stake networks where token holders delegate their voting power to validators. Debates often address how to balance decentralization with effective oversight and the fairness of penalty mechanisms. Future developments will likely focus on refined delegation protocols that minimize centralization risks while maintaining robust security and performance.