---
layout: rule
title: Benevolent dictator
permalink: /templates/benevolent-dictator/
icon: /assets/tabler_icons/eye.svg

community-name: 

# BASICS
structure: One community member, the benevolent dictator for life (BDFL), holds ultimate decision-making power while seeking to represent a balance of the views and the best interests of the community as a whole.
mission:
values:
legal: 

# PARTICIPANTS
membership: Membership is open to anyone who wants to join.
removal: The BDFL can remove misbehaving members at will for the sake of the common good.
roles:
limits: In the event that the BDFL is unable or unwilling to continue leadership, the BDFL may appoint a new BDFL or choose to alter the governance structure entirely.

# POLICY
rights: 
decision: The BDFL sets the community's policies and makes decisions for the community, taking reasonable account of input from other community members.
implementation: The BDFL is responsible for implementing—or delegating implementation of—policies and other decisions.
oversight: If members are not happy with the BDFL's leadership, they are free to voice their concerns or leave the community.

# PROCESS
access:
economics:
deliberation: Community members are free to discuss and debate community policies, practices, and culture.
grievances:

# EVOLUTION
records: 
modification: The BDFL can change the governance structure of the community at will.
---

Use this template as-is or edit it to adapt it to your community.

A commonly used structure in open-source communities such as Linux.