This upgrade marks a pivotal moment, giving ADA holders more control over the network’s future.
With the official draft of the Cardano constitution signed in December 2024, the next step is an on-chain vote by the community and Delegated Representatives (DReps).
Why the Plomin Hard Fork Matters
The Plomin hard fork is a critical upgrade for the Cardano blockchain, bringing major governance changes. It completes the decentralized governance framework outlined in CIP-1694, shifting decision-making power directly to the community. ADA holders will now be able to delegate their voting power to DReps, who will vote on key governance actions such as:
- Protocol parameter changes.
- Treasury withdrawals.
- Hard fork initiations.
This upgrade will officially mark the transition to the Voltaire era, where governance decisions are entirely community-driven.
Tonight, Cardano evolves.
The Plomin hard fork takes effect, marking the transition to full decentralized governance. $Ada holders gain real voting power—on parameter changes, treasury withdrawals, hard forks, and the blockchain’s future.
A milestone in blockchain governance.
— Cardano Foundation (@Cardano_CF) January 29, 2025
How the Plomin Hard Fork Works
A blockchain hard fork updates the software across all nodes that validate transactions and secure the network. To move forward, at least 51% of Cardano’s Stake Pool Operators (SPOs) must approve the upgrade. As of January 22, 78% of network nodes had already upgraded.
This hard fork will also be the first in Cardano’s history to use on-chain governance, ensuring transparency and accountability. EMURGO, a key Cardano entity, and ICC member, backed the upgrade.
What’s Changing?
The Plomin hard fork delivers the second phase of governance tools outlined in CIP-1694. The main features include:
- Full DRep implementation – ADA holders can delegate voting power to DReps.
- Treasury withdrawals – Governance participants can propose and vote on treasury fund allocations.
- Stakeholder voting – SPOs and community members have a direct say in Cardano’s future.
We are pleased to announce that we have voted YES on the Plomin Hard Fork governance action. 🗳️
After a thorough review, we have determined that the governance action is fully constitutional.
Read our full rationale below. pic.twitter.com/m1woWjrGg7
— Cardano Foundation (@Cardano_CF) January 23, 2025
The Bigger Picture
This upgrade is a major leap forward for Cardano, pushing it further into full-fledged decentralized governance. The blockchain’s transparent decision-making model sets it apart, challenging other networks to follow suit.
As Cardano strengthens its governance, the broader crypto community is watching. With BlackRock and other financial giants showing interest in tokenized assets, blockchain governance could soon become a hot topic beyond just crypto circles.
Disclaimer
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