Operator Framework
The framework for substrate operators
The operator framework defines what it means to be a substrate operator, the role, its responsibilities, the classes recognised by the constitution, and the separation of duties required between them.
Operator authority is bounded
Substrate operators act within a defined, constitutionally-derived scope of authority. They do not hold administrative power by default, each capability is granted explicitly, is scoped to a defined domain, and is revocable when the conditions for the grant are no longer satisfied. Scope is a condition of the mandate, not a standing entitlement.
Accountability is non-negotiable
Every operator action is attested and recorded on the audit ledger. Operators cannot take administrative actions without producing an auditable trail; the trail is inspectable by participants, by the Foundation board, and by regulators with a constitutionally-recognised interest. Accountability is not optional for any operator class.
Framework binds all operators
The operator framework applies to every party operating on the substrate, including the Foundation itself when it acts in an operational capacity. No operator is exempt from the framework's obligations on the basis of their relationship to the Foundation or their position in the governance hierarchy.