Cardano (ADA) has recently implemented the Chang hard fork update, marking a significant advancement in its governance structure. This upgrade signifies a major shift towards decentralized decision-making, allowing ADA token holders to actively participate in voting on proposals and selecting governance representatives.
The update comes shortly after Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson discussed several major updates during Rare Evo 2024, where he talked about focusing on advancements in technology, governance, and global outreach.
 
Enter Voltaire
The development heralds the beginning of the Voltaire era, a new phase aimed at enhancing governance for Cardano. The upgrade also introduces CIP-1694, a key improvement that transfers governance control and gives it to community-led organizations.
These include the Constitutional Committee, Delegate Representatives, and Stake Pool Operators, which are all designed to ensure a more democratic and decentralized approach. By doing so, Cardano aligns itself more closely with the broader decentralized ethos of the blockchain industry and increases the utility of the ADA token.
 
Governance Overhaul
Cardano, launched in 2017 by Input Output Hong Kong (IOHK), is known for its research-driven approach and commitment to security and scalability. Its ADA token, named after Ada Lovelace, the 19th-century mathematician, serves as the native cryptocurrency for the platform and is used for transactions, staking, and governance.
The Chang hard fork is the initial phase of this governance overhaul, with the full implementation of governance powers expected within the next 90 days. This positions Cardano as a leader in on-chain governance, setting a new standard for blockchain networks in terms of community involvement and decentralized control.