> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs/canopy-network/core-features/united-governance.md).

# United Governance

### Validator Driven-Governance

💡 With Canopy, a chain's protocol is determined by the agreement of the Validator Set —  

*However, any participant within the ecosystem may submit a* **governance poll or proposal:**

**Straw Poll**

* Enable Canopy chains to understand their community sentiment via on-chain voting
* The results of a straw poll are divided into 
  * "accounts" aka liquid tokens
  * "validators" aka locked tokens
* Non-canopy chains may utilize this functionality with a *plugin chain*

<figure><img src="https://2343293880-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FLrZDX2RTu3ClIHkvyP7T%2Fuploads%2Fjbcp6I5jhC8LvxMjTxAu%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=0a8bb8f5-c9cf-4e3a-b4df-1d811bf70896" alt=""><figcaption><p>Screenshot from Canopy's decentralized web-wallet</p></figcaption></figure>

**Proposal**

* Enable Canopy chains to&#x20;
  * execute in-flight modifications to their protocol via parameter changes without any code
  * distribute treasury funds via the DAO token pool

<figure><img src="https://2343293880-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FLrZDX2RTu3ClIHkvyP7T%2Fuploads%2FYabZLmhqfBPuQxuSQWU3%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=2f030752-dbf4-434b-83af-d615052e18f8" alt=""><figcaption><p>Screenshot from Canopy's decentralized web-wallet</p></figcaption></figure>

### Ecosystem Governance

💡 By nature of Canopy's nested architecture, a multi-chain governance model naturally forms.&#x20;

Operating like the United Nations: **Nested-Chains retain sovereignty but collaborate via validator representation between ecosystems to solve inter-ecosystem issues.**

This exists in the form of:

* Nested Chains validators cross-pollinating validators in the Security Root. &#x20;
* Nested Chains having the sovereignty to join or leave any Security Root system
* Nested Chains work together to adopt standards, fund shared initiatives, and resolve disputes, fostering a thriving network.
* A decentralized division of power:
  * ensuring no Nested Chain or validator dominates the ecosystem, promoting trust and stability
  * ensuring balanced decision-making, reducing volatility, and protecting investments