Definition ∞ Decentralized governance power refers to the ability of a community or a distributed group of token holders to collectively make decisions about a protocol or platform. This power is typically exercised through voting mechanisms on proposals, allowing participants to influence upgrades, parameter changes, or treasury allocations. It distributes authority away from a single entity, promoting community ownership and control. This system aims to prevent single points of failure and censorship.
Context ∞ News often covers significant governance votes, debates on proposal structures, or the rise of new decentralized autonomous organizations exercising this power. The effectiveness and fairness of decentralized governance power are constant subjects of discussion, particularly concerning voter participation, potential for whale domination, and the mechanisms for proposal creation and execution. Its continued evolution is critical for the long-term sustainability and adaptability of decentralized protocols.