This protocol defines the responsibilities, expectations, and processes for Stewards of the Network Nations Alliance.
Instantiation
Trigger Type: Status-based
Trigger Condition:
- An individual holds the Steward role
Authority & Oversight
| Role | Authority | Accountability |
|---|---|---|
| Steward | Operates per this protocol | Steward Council, Alliance Assembly |
| Steward Council | Collective stewardship decisions | Alliance Assembly |
| Alliance Assembly | Ultimate oversight of Stewards | The Constitution |
Steward Selection
Current
Stewards are self-appointed with consent of existing Stewards:
- Individual expresses interest in becoming Steward
- Existing Stewards discuss and reach consent
- If consent reached, individual joins Steward Council
- Alliance Assembly informed at next gathering
Future
Selection process to be determined by Alliance Assembly. This protocol will be amended to reflect the decided process.
Core Responsibilities
Infrastructure Stewardship
- Maintain Alliance platforms and tools
- Ensure systems remain functional and accessible
- Coordinate technical support and improvements
Asset Management
- Protect and evolve shared assets
- Maintain treasury per Treasury Management Protocol
- Ensure constitutional integrity
Facilitation
- Enable Alliance Assembly gatherings
- Support activity formation and coordination
- Coordinate Steward Council operations
Communication
- Maintain Alliance communication channels
- Represent Alliance in external contexts
- Keep Members informed of relevant developments
Operational Coordination
- Respond to Member needs and questions
- Coordinate among Stewards on responsibilities
- Ensure continuity of Alliance functions
Rights & Responsibilities
Rights
| Category | Right |
|---|---|
| Governance | Full Member rights plus Steward Council participation |
| Operations | Administrative access to all Alliance platforms |
| Treasury | Signatory on multi-sig wallet |
| Representation | Speak for Alliance in appropriate contexts |
Responsibilities
| Category | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Availability | Responsive to operational needs within reasonable time |
| Participation | Active engagement in Steward Council |
| Stewardship | Careful management of Alliance assets and resources |
| Service | Orientation toward serving membership, not directing it |
Expectations
Active Participation: Participate in weekly/bi-weekly Steward Council coordination Responsiveness: Respond to operational matters within 48 hours when possible Collaboration: Work constructively with fellow Stewards Transparency: Document decisions and share information with Members
Transition
Stepping Down:
- Steward provides 30 days notice when possible
- Steward supports knowledge transfer to remaining Stewards
- Responsibilities reassigned within Steward Council
Removal:
- Process to be determined by Alliance Assembly
- Until then, Steward Council addresses concerns internally
Annual Review
Steward Council conducts annual self-assessment:
- Individual reflection on contributions and challenges
- Peer feedback within Council
- Collective assessment of Council function
- Adjustments to responsibilities or practices as needed
Completion & Outputs
Protocol is ongoing while:
- Individual holds Steward role
Outputs:
- Operational records
- Decision documentation
- Annual review notes
Related Protocols
- Steward Council Protocol — Collective Steward operations
- Treasury Management Protocol — Financial responsibilities
- Member Protocol — Base membership expectations (Stewards are also Members)