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The metagovernance trilemma across decentralized autonomous organizations: a scoping review
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DOI：10.3389/fbloc.2026.1759073.png)
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Abstract
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Introduction: Metagovernance in decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) refers to the mechanisms through which one DAO shapes or constrains another DAO's governance, typically through token-based influence. Despite the growing inter-organizational relationships in decentralized ecosystems, metagovernance remains significantly understudied. Methods: This scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and systematically searched seven electronic databases from 2008 to 2025. From the 979 initial records, seven publications met the inclusion criteria. Results: Three mechanism families emerged: voting and control links, architectural layering through nested DAO structures, and participation coupling via airdrops that create governance interlocks. Recurrent challenges include procedural complexity, participation concentration, security vulnerabilities in multi-stage voting pipelines, and cross-chain infrastructure risks. A metagovernance trilemma emerged, whereby simultaneously maximizing decentralization, security, and participation proves impossible. Conclusion: Metagovernance spans forum deliberation, off-chain polling, and cross-chain execution, where decision points become obscured. Future research should focus on developing uniform definitions, interoperable measurement tools, and legal frameworks for cross-jurisdictional DAO governance.
Keywords:
blockchain technology
DAO
metagovernance
review
trilemma
Journal
F
IF:
2.4
Papers:
59
Citations:
558
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Cited Papers