Ripple’s technology chief shows support for proposed XRPL governance changes

On Jan 29, 2024

Ripple’s chief technology officer, David Schwartz, has recently expressed his views on a new governance proposal for the XRPL Foundation.

In an X post on Jan. 29, Schwartz highlighted the significance of community involvement in shaping the proposal, which he referred to as a “straw man” and as a preliminary concept intended to kickstart discussions and attract a wide range of ideas.

Appreciate this public clarity from you, @sappenin. David also shared his proposal with me as a courtesy beforehand, as he did with XRPLF, and the Foundation was receptive to the proposal. At the end of the day though, he, like any other community member, doesn’t need…
— David “JoelKatz” Schwartz (@JoelKatz) January 29, 2024

Schwartz emphasized the proposal’s goal to improve the transparency and democratic nature of XRPL governance. He pointed out that presenting such ideas does not require special permission, as every community member is entitled to contribute.

The Ripple CTO voiced his support for David Fuelling’s proposal to update the governance structure of the XRPL Foundation. Schwartz believes that these changes would lead to more transparent and inclusive governance of the XRPL.

The proposed amendments are expected to create a more democratic framework, encouraging community engagement in the Foundation’s development.

Fuelling, in a recent address to the XRPL community, elaborated on the timing and motives behind his proposal. He explained that it stemmed from a long-standing desire within the community for a more influential role in XRPL’s governance.

Fuelling’s intention is to align more closely with the principles of decentralization and democratic organization. His proposal is not meant as a critique but as a vision to enhance the Foundation’s existing structure, suggesting a more defined membership model and sustainable funding methods.

His vision also includes transforming the XRPLF into a body that is more inclusive and governed by its members. Fuelling shared his proposal with XRPL Foundation leaders and developers before its public release, aiming for open community dialogue rather than behind-the-scenes discussions.

Although some concerns have been raised about the potential implications of Fuelling’s proposal, he maintains that the goal is to secure sustainable funding for the Foundation without undermining its integrity. Fuelling invites the community to collaboratively refine the proposal, ensuring it resonates with the community’s values and the XRPL Foundation’s objectives.