This document is the Delegated Representative (DRep) Code of Conduct. It applies to both Catalyst DRep and the CIP 1694 DRep, containing constitutional recommendations input by communities from various channels and mediums since 2. Dec 2023 and onwards. If the treatment differs between CIP1694 DRep and Catalyst DRep, this will be clearly indicated in a footnote. Furthermore, through this document, we recommend that DReps disclose three components to delegates and use these three items as the basis and fundamental indicators for selecting DReps. It is vital for a healthy governance system. Thus, we present the Policy for formulating rules and following the DRep code of conduct definitions. ADA holders can self-register and delegate their DRep, but such cases are outside the scope of this document. Also, non-confidence DRep and abstention DRep are out of scope.

Introduction

The following policies were established for the creation of this document.

Values not rules: We aim to present desirable values for resilient governance rather than merely establishing minimum rules. This document has been established and formed based on the values of immutability, resilience, transparency, security, and, finally, the accountability of the users of the blockchain for everyone's long-term benefit. We are first given our considered values and examples of how such a value-based approach could be solved for the individual DRep. 
Erring on the side of freedom: Allow DRep freedom whenever possible. However, we have to make a choice in how we give examples of implementing values. The practical selection would ideally comprise risk assessment interoperate with the chance of erring on the side of freedom. This is also important in terms of flexibility. Allow for some flexibility in the requirements to accommodate different types and sizes of DReps and potential changes in Cardano ecosystem over time.
Not obligatory: As decentralization contribution and feedback collection. Hence, this document is not intended to bind nor be a completed and unique guide as a DRep Code of Conduct, but rather to serve as a valuable guideline for confirming and insisting to the delegate that he/she is a suitable DRep.


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There are two important differences between the Catalyst DRep and the CIP 1694 DRep in this document.
1)The design of the CIP 1694 clearly opens up for DReps that utilize a native or plutus script for credentials such as a smart contract-enabled DAO or a multi-signature type of credential.
2)The technical capabilities needed are more clearly defined and actively being worked on in the SanchoNet testnet as well as the tooling for DReps is being worked on, such as the GovTools. 

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Reason:  This approach is believed to be more flexible and adaptable to potential changes in the governance system. 

For example, when considering DAO's potential added complexities to DRep governance we also looked at the potential this has to unlock new ways of governance and new ways of expressing yourself. A system of governance like the one nations states already have would not be to try to push for the potential of decentralized governance. In the end, while catastrophic for the blockchain if it failed, we would gain more as a human species if we pushed for further freedoms and unlocking new governance forms through blockchain technology.


Policy for formulating rules

![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1237411161276682280/1274296903890108448/Drep.png?ex=66c1bcf9&is=66c06b79&hm=49c1aecc6295aaf091a7dbb8b23815843df0f1070ad0f97ce5c690e29affeea1&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1519&height=846)


Proof of Disclosure, Penalty for Violation and Incentives - If possible, incorporate a system of proof of disclosure and penalties for non-compliance. There is no system with current technology to objectively enforce this, but if such a system were created, this would need to be written into the code of conduct table above. It was also suggested that although incentives are not currently envisioned in CIP 1694, it would be better to implement incentives in some form.
・It is both Proof of Disclosure, Penalty for Violation and Incentives - If possible, incorporate a system of proof of disclosure and penalties for non-compliance. There is no system with current technology to objectively enforce this, but if such a sy sincere and important to comment on areas where "lack of knowledge precludes voting." 
・[Examples of essential knowledge] Basic knowledge of CIP 1694, Cardano and blockchain is required. 
・[Examples of knowledge that may be better to have] Knowledge that would be helpful in some cases ranges from business skills (marketing and investment strategies) to knowledge of specific areas such as micropayments in Africa.
・[How to prove knowledge] Certificates for courses such as the DRep Pioneer Program and by writing essays on governance. This knowledge can be evidenced by certificates from DRep Pioneer Program and other courses, essay writing on governance, X followers, LinkedIn, CV etc.

In the case of DAO-type DReps, disclose 1,  how DAO issued tokens are traded 2. the parameters of governance scripts, 3,the sale of DRep voting rights.

・Each DRep is encouraged to poll its delegates on how they should vote. The timing, methods, and tools for this should be agreed upon by the delegates.
・Policy on Voting Decision disclosures includes the application of the Constitution, the use of experts, and the application of the minimum policies required by the Code of conduct for CIP1694 DRep. 
・Enclose the rationale for their voting decisions especially regarding controversial or impactful proposals.



CIP1694 DRep Code of Conduct

![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1237411161276682280/1274298119005278218/drep2.png?ex=66c1be1a&is=66c06c9a&hm=dd849e87ffbb24412f603979c1a5f69bc41dfffd19b4708db139fdbc6e9b3b43&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1661&height=681)

 Catalyst specific considerations
We can expect more experimentation from Catalyst as this has historically been the case. This also means that Catalyst DReps likely need to update their voting policy for each time there is a change in the voting method on the Catalyst platform. 
Another thing to consider is the Catalyst DRep likely will have to consider the overall budget and give some rationale to prioritization within that budget for delegator of the DRep. This could be done through a list of proposals voted for and rationale for these voting for the delegators to see. 
Any Catalyst DRep that shares other roles within Catalyst such as being a reviewer should disclose this but should not exclude the DRep from voting unless there is a conflict of interest.
We expect to evolve the Catalyst DRep and look forward to any feedback from the series of workshops on Catalyst in 2024. 

 In the case of DAO-type DReps, disclose 1,  how DAO issued tokens are traded 2. the parameters of governance scripts, 3,the sale of DRep voting rights.


Catalyst DRep Code of Conduct

The management policy of this document
The document is currently a merged version of the Catalyst DRep Code of Conduct with the Code of Conduct in general for Delegate Representatives. It is currently maintained by the group having a catalyst proposal for a series of DRep workshops. (Adam, Ekow, Eystein, Jose, Thomas and Yuta). There are multiple ways to give feedback detailed at the start of the document, and we welcome community members to join in as part of the editorial team in the future. 


This document should be constantly improved. Some improvements should be made at least once every three months, and if there are no changes for more than three months, please contact the ``DRep workshops'' group. If the "DRep workshops" group is inactive, document management rights should be transferred to another group.
Feedback Tracking Records


Norwegian / international community first feedback round 02-04th December 2023:
Eystein and Thomas held an online feedback round and reached out to the Norwegian Cardano Community.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1s5qCkodyxx-0eIxhgh0QaahZjsCXv7MQ5IMRwzuTTZc/edit?usp=sharing
Twitter space with Adam, Eystein and Jose where we also mentioned and asked for feedback for the Code of Conduct. https://twitter.com/AdamRusch/status/1731705154678776029
Online first feedback round 08-12th December 2023:
Ekow, Yota and Jose reached out to Ghana, Japan and Latam communities for a feedback round. 
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1gH6DPDb77MXd9H2Ul218Me0vR2_xhnZfC4ltF2Cy-x0/edit?usp=sharing (this form will also have further feedback from other communities)
Online outreach 18-20th December 2023:
The whole team reached out to multiple Cardano online communities during this period and used the same form as in the previous rounds: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1gH6DPDb77MXd9H2Ul218Me0vR2_xhnZfC4ltF2Cy-x0/edit?usp=sharing 
Feedback from CF and workshop attendees online during 24th december to 9th January added directly as comments in document. 
Japan 2nd feedback 13th January (postponed from 30th december) added directly as comments in document. 
Workshops (Oslo 20th January, Accra 27th January, Indianapolis 17th February, Tokyo 21st February and Bogota 24th February). 


1. You can leave feedback on this document in one of three ways: If you provide feedback, you can be listed as a contributor at the end of the document if you wish.


For feedback on this document for now, you may use this link:
[https://forms.gle/Q9SzxV3RDWjEvrsW6 
](url)

2. You can leave a comment with [Command + Option + M].
Summary versions:
NADA (Nordic Cardano Community) graphical short version for the Workshop in 20th January
[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iVvTR06aviORFMABu9VQg4qGKTxoRAWi/view?usp=sharing
](url)

Document management policy and change history and contributors

A. The DRep role Constitutional guardrails 


DRep actions that could be considered against a Cardano constitution should be based on the established values of the Cardano constitution. For now, it is clear that the blockchain itself is immutable and has the liveliness to be a functioning blockchain. We need to ensure that DReps cannot change the immutability and liveness of the blockchain. And we have this as our starting point for recommendations for the constitution from a DRep perspective.  We also argue that the governance system needs to have some form of accountability for the long-term benefit of governance and voter rights to ensure participation in said governance. 


 We will update here with recommendations as it becomes more clear what the constitution for Cardano upholds as its values if it is a value-based constitution, and what rules that could relate to dReps if it is a more rules-based focused constitution. 

![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/980490396356476938/1274300432159604818/table.png?ex=66c1c042&is=66c06ec2&hm=e4d41b0b1d31f51ee374c3147036ae5344edaa428c89e88d7add9e4093596d27&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1506&height=506)


B. Consideration of whether the disclosure items are comprehensive:
We confirmed that the disclosure items are comprehensive, as they are set up to address all currently recognizable risks associated with the DRep.

List of risks and corresponding disclosure items.
In the process of making this document draft we also identified several risks that DRep needs to be aware of and that we believe should be important aspects to look into for training of DReps. Some of these risks are from the great work done by the Cardano Governance Security Working Group led by Rick McCracken. 
Basically, there is no difference between CIP1694 and Catalyst in this section. If there are differences, they are noted in a footnote.

![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/980490396356476938/1274300924210315305/Table2.png?ex=66c1c0b7&is=66c06f37&hm=84db3b571baf7e87ff1605f2aab12f99f3eff3ca3f07d6366a9edb4a766985a8&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=1481&height=681)


There is no difference in risk between the two at this stage as the Catalyst DRep is not in active testing. However, different risks may be identified in the future when both processes are more clearly defined.
Differences in detected risks:
Catalyst DREP giving kickbacks after voting as appreciation. Although it may occur with CIP1694, it may be more likely to occur with Catalyst considering the frequency and number of projects.


Risk
Code of Conduct element
DReps lose keys, stolen or sold to a bad actor. 
Knowledge
Widespread amount of DReps that do not have sufficient knowledge to have an efficient governance system. 
Knowledge
Lack of Technical understanding by DReps causes them to misunderstand or fail in governance actions. 
Knowledge
Widespread amount of DReps that have not enough resources to adequately conduct votes (incentives, time etc). 
Resources
Widespread sybil behavior from DReps. 
Identity / Anti-Sybil attack measures 
Regulation risks to DReps in a geographical region. 
Identity / Anti-Sybil attack measures
DReps are not held accountable through both lack of transparency in blockchain and socially in being held to the promises they make regarding voting behavior, causing an inefficient governance system. 
Identity / Anti-Sybil attack measures, interests and alliances / Organization disclosures
DAO & Organization risks with the smart contract or multi-wallet technology they interact with (may require audits?)
Interests and alliances /  Organization disclosures
Powerful Voter Collusions between DReps (could cause voter fatigue among other things)
Identity / Anti-Sybil attack measures, Interests and alliances /  Coalition measure
DRep botting with random voting behavior for incentives or to keep DRep active without fulfilling any useful governance purpose.
Voting process / Voting Decision Rules
Superstar/Overpowering DRep - with no saturation limit this is a potential risk again for voter fatigue as well as resource-draining attacks from the overpowering DRep.
Voting process / Voting Decision Rules, Interests and alliances / Interests of the Proposer
Game theory risks such as selling voting power in a token offering similar to the ISPO model or tokenized DAO or Organization voting power and reselling.
Interests and alliances /  Interests of the Proposer
Lack of transparency on voting patterns of DRep to put delegator informed on the kind of votes being cast. *1
Voting process /  Voting Decision Rules
Interests and alliances / Interests of the Proposer
DRep bias, dRep may not represent their delegates fully based on gender, religion, ethnicity, political geographical locations. *1
Voting process /  Voting Decision Rules
Risk of relegating voter’s power in circumstances where DRep engages in malicious voting and practices detrimental to the ecosystem. 
Voting process /  Voting Decision Rules
DRep bias, dRep may not represent their delegates fully base on gender, religion, ethnicity, political geographical locations.
(3-1) Voting Decision Rules



*1 : From our feedback rounds these further risks have been identified for the CIP 1694 DRep governance.
C. Reference links and Reference informations


An Introduction to Liquid Democracy
https://medium.com/@memetic007/liquid-democracy-9cf7a4cb7f


Details of CIP1694 written about CIP1694, DRep and Constitution
https://www.1694.io/


A Treasury System for Cryptocurrencies: Enabling Better Collaborative Intelligence 
https://iohk.io/en/research/library/papers/a-treasury-system-for-cryptocurrencies-enabling-better-collaborative-intelligence/


DRep incentives
Although incentives are beyond the scope of this document, the workload of CIP1694DRep is estimated to be small and unpaid volunteers are assumed. 
The details of CatalystDRep's incentives are not clear, but three things will be emphasized: effective (good outcomes), fair (anyone with the same resources can have the same outcomes), and efficient (not too slow) governance.


Advantages and disadvantages of becoming a DRep
Advantages
You can earn reputation. You can also contribute to the future of Cardano.
Disadvantages
There is no reward. Making decisions that are considered inappropriate by some communities can expose you to criticism. A deposit may be required.




More Workshop Ideas
It was suggested that initiatives such as a script DRep that "delegates to someone else's DRep unless he himself overrides the vote," or a list of DReps who are making contributions, would be interesting.


Portuguese Portuguese nAppendix 

2022


History of Catalyst DRep Code of Conduct changes


v0.1 release - 11/22/2022
v0.2 release - 11/26/2022 (Much improved content thanks to Em Russom ,Eystein Magnus Hansen ,Felix Weber, Yan Tirta ,Luke Mahoney (Mlabs)  and Tevo Saks)
v0.3 release - 12/08/2022 (Much improved content thanks to Vladimir Pekic, Nick OLEUM Stakepool and June Akra)
v0.4 release - 12/20/2022 (Much improved content thanks to Ha Nguyen)
v1.0 release - 12/27/2022
v1.1 release - 12/27/2022 (Much improved content thanks to Fuuko Lu)


2023
Catalyst DRep Code of Conduct V1.2 11/19/23  Added risk segment and connected to each recommendation, constantly use term DRep. (Eystein Hansen) in adopting the document to the DRep Code of Conduct document that will be used for DRep workshops. 
Catalyst DRep Code of Conduct V1.3 15.12.23 Added new risk segments based on feedback from the community. (Eystein Hansen). 
CIP1694 DRep Code of Conduct V0.1 11th November 2023.
CIP1694 DRep Code of Conduct V0.2 12th December 2023.
CIP1694 DRep Code of Conduct V1.0 15th December 2023.
CIP1694 Drep Code of Conduct revised V1.0 20th December 2023.  
DRep Code of Conduct revised V1.1 20th-26th December 2023. - Mainly major revisions in terms of format.  


2024
January 9-14th. Changed the name to Code of Conduct (merged the two codes of conduct) and v1.0 as well as adding a graphical version and making changes from the Japanese community feedback the 14th of January. 
March 2024 - Review of the workshop feedback and changing the Code of Conduct to 2.0. Include a catalyst DRep segment again.


Edit history

2022
History of Catalyst DRep Code of Conduct changes
v0.1 release - 11/22/2022
v0.2 release - 11/26/2022 (Much improved content thanks to Em Russom ,Eystein Magnus Hansen ,Felix Weber, Yan Tirta ,Luke Mahoney (Mlabs)  and Tevo Saks)
v0.3 release - 12/08/2022 (Much improved content thanks to Vladimir Pekic, Nick OLEUM Stakepool and June Akra)
v0.4 release - 12/20/2022 (Much improved content thanks to Ha Nguyen)
v1.0 release - 12/27/2022
v1.1 release - 12/27/2022 (Much improved content thanks to Fuuko Lu)


2023
Catalyst DRep Code of Conduct V1.2 11/19/23  Added risk segment and connected to each recommendation, constantly use the term DRep. (Eystein Hansen) in adopting the document to the DRep Code of Conduct document that will be used for DRep workshops. 
Catalyst DRep Code of Conduct V1.3 15.12.23 Added new risk segments based on feedback from the community. (Eystein Hansen). 
CIP1694 DRep Code of Conduct V0.1 11th November 2023.
CIP1694 DRep Code of Conduct V0.2 12th December 2023.
CIP1694 DRep Code of Conduct V1.0 15th December 2023.
CIP1694 Drep Code of Conduct revised V1.0 20th December 2023. 
Drep Code of Conduct (change of name) V1.0 3. January 2024 (Yota edits + community contributions)
Contributor (Alphabetical order) until January 2024. 
Beatrice Anihiri
Ep Ep
Em Russo
Eystein Magnus Hansen ( Pool ticker: ANP name: Ada North Pool )
Felix Weber
Fuuko Lu
Jose Miguel De Gamboa
Jovanni
June Akra
Ha Nguyen (ProSkills39)
Nat Dwamena
Nick OLEUM Stakepool
Nickolas Cherney 
Yan Tirta
Yuta
Luke Mahoney (Mlabs)
Seidu Ziblim
Tevo Saks
Thomas Lindseth (NADA) 
Vladimir Pekic


Contributor (Alphabetical order) until March 2024.


sparkcube
Jenni Illona Mayshiogie
Yan Tirta
nvhieu
tienna
EP EP
Beatrice Anihiri
Jose
taro (プールティッカー：BANC)
NTSYサポートサービス　代表　齋藤憲朗
SMAN8
Richmond Sabah 
Nathaniel Dwamena
Seidu Ziblim, Cardano Ghana Community 
Roger 
Afia Owusu
Jimmy Lee
Andreas Sosilo
@vneconomics
Cham Cheo
Van Tran
Tien Tung
Thomas Lindseth
Yuta
Seira(Socious)
Yunya(JpegStore)


Contributors history

DRep Code of Conduct

This document is the Delegated Representative (DRep) Code of Conduct.

DRep Code of Conduct

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