Definition ∞ Governance practices in the context of digital assets refer to the established procedures and mechanisms through which decentralized networks and protocols make collective decisions. These practices define how changes to a system are proposed, debated, voted upon, and implemented by token holders or other designated participants. Effective governance ensures the adaptability, security, and long-term viability of blockchain projects. It provides a structured approach to managing shared resources and protocol evolution.
Context ∞ Discussions surrounding governance practices in the crypto space frequently highlight challenges related to voter participation, potential centralization of power among large token holders, and the effectiveness of on-chain versus off-chain decision-making. News often covers significant governance proposals, their outcomes, and the resulting impact on protocol development or token value. Regulators are also beginning to scrutinize governance models for transparency and accountability, particularly in decentralized autonomous organizations.