How Open Source Coordinates: A Guide for Policy Makers
Understanding horizontal governance in the FOSS ecosystem
Mirko Boehm, Senior Director for Community Development, Linux Foundation Europe
Free and open source software (FOSS) sustains global infrastructure but resists centralized control. Coordination occurs through dependencies, open governance, and self-organizing communities. These structures create opportunities for standards and innovation, yet limit direct policy influence. Effective engagement requires adapting to horizontal collaboration rather than imposing hierarchy.














