Cardano’s delegate-endorsed Constitution - now on-chain for DReps and the ICC to consider

Cardano is taking the next step in its governance journey by developing and implementing its first community-driven Constitution. Crafted with input from 1,400 contributors across 63 workshops in 50 countries, this Constitution represents the community vision and shared values, and confirms a key check and balance within Cardano’s governance model. In December 2024 the 63 elected delegates came together at the Constitutional Convention in Buenos Aires and Nairobi and voted 95% in favor of approving the draft Constitution for an on-chain vote.

Path to ratification

This next step is crucial: the governance action proposing replacing the interim Constitution with the delegate-endorsed Constitution is now on-chain!

DReps and the Interim Constitutional Committee will decide whether to ratify the delegate-approved Constitution fully, with the action requiring

75% of DRep-represented stake voting in favor, and
67% of the ICC to vote the action constitutional

On-chain

See the action via tooling;

Key dates

The Civics Committee’s Ratification working group is spearheading this effort. With the Civics Committee's endorsement and following the successful enactment of the Plomin hard fork, Intersect has now submitted the action.

The voting period will run from January 30th to March 5th. If the above thresholds are met during this period, enactment could occur between February 13th and March 10th.

This governance action is notable as the first “non-info” action for DRep approval. So take this opportunity to register as a DRep, or be ready to check your DRep’s voting rationale.

Stay informed and engaged

This milestone marks a pivotal moment in Cardano’s evolution. The ratification of its first community-driven Constitution will set the stage for a new era of decentralized governance.

For a deep dive into all the materials and consultation process, head over to our knowledge base.

Throughout February, we’ll host spaces and forums to continue the conversation with delegates and members of the Civics committee and various working groups. Watch this space!

As the community takes collective ownership of this process, we encourage all members and associates to stay informed, engage with their DReps, and actively contribute to this historic step. Together, we are shaping the foundation of a governance model that will guide Cardano's future with integrity, inclusivity, and shared purpose.