> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://odin.ubiqsmart.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://odin.ubiqsmart.com/governance/the-escher-system.md).
# The Escher System
Ubiq separates the utility of its network into distinct roles.
While UBQ is used as the value vehicle of the Ubiq network which rewards Proof of Work and funds computational processing, it is not used as criteria for governance.
One may even hold a large percentage of the total supply of UBQ, yet hold no direct influence on proposed changes to the network.
In order to vote in the Ubiq system, one must have a balance of ESCH tokens.
ESCH tokens were distributed to the community through a series of airdrops, which required participants holding a UBQ balance ( in a wallet to which the user controlled the private key ) to interact with a smart contract in order to be allocated ESCH.
ESCH is listed on [
](https://nomics.com/assets/esch-escher)
---
# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.
## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.
Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter:
```
GET https://odin.ubiqsmart.com/governance/the-escher-system.md?ask=&goal=
```
`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.
Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.