User Sovereignty

Definition ∞ User sovereignty denotes the principle that individuals possess ultimate control over their digital identity, data, and assets. It emphasizes the right of users to manage their digital lives independently, without reliance on or permission from centralized authorities. This concept is a core tenet of decentralized technologies.
Context ∞ The discussion around user sovereignty is prominent in the context of digital asset ownership and data privacy regulations. News frequently covers the development of self-custodial wallets, decentralized identity solutions, and the ongoing debate about data ownership in the digital realm. Understanding user sovereignty is crucial for appreciating the philosophical underpinnings and practical implications of decentralized systems.