The Ethereum Foundation (ETH) released the "EF Mandate," serving as its "charter, manifesto, and action guide," clarifying its mission, decision-making principles, and role within the Ethereum ecosystem. The document states that Ethereum's core goal is to guarantee user self-sovereignty, meaning users have ultimate control over their identity, assets, and actions. The Foundation emphasizes that Ethereum's development must always adhere to four core attributes: censorship resistance, open source and freedom, privacy, and security (collectively known as CROPS), stating that these principles should not be sacrificed for efficiency or convenience. It also places Ethereum within a broader open technology ecosystem, referring to it as part of the "Infinite Garden," an open digital infrastructure network jointly built by developers, the community, and institutions. The ETH Foundation states that its role is that of a "guardian" of the project, not an owner or ruler, and its responsibility is to maintain the network's long-term vision and open values. The Foundation also emphasizes that as the ecosystem matures, its influence should gradually decrease, with more responsibilities being assumed by the broader community and developer ecosystem.