'Ethereum Is Going Hard': Vitalik Buterin Backs Censorship Resistance Upgrade
Decrypt
by Jason NelsonFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ethereum developers are set to introduce a significant upgrade aimed at reinforcing the network’s commitment to censorship resistance. The upgrade, known as FOCIL (Fork-Choice Enforced Inclusion Lists), will be part of the upcoming Hegota upgrade in late 2026. This proposal, outlined in EIP-7805, ensures that all valid transactions are included in blocks by forcing validators to incorporate them under specific conditions. While supporters like Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin argue that FOCIL strengthens the network’s cypherpunk ethos, critics raise concerns about potential risks to validators, particularly when dealing with sanctioned addresses or protocols.
FOCIL operates alongside EIP-8141, which elevates smart accounts and privacy protocols to "first-class citizens" on Ethereum. This combination ensures that transactions from multisig wallets, quantum-resistant signatures, and privacy tools are rapidly included in blocks, even in adversarial environments. Buterin emphasizes that this approach guarantees the inclusion of almost any valid transaction within one to two slots, making Ethereum more resistant to censorship while maintaining interoperability with existing systems.
Despite these benefits, critics such as Ethereum developer Ameen Soleimani warn that FOCIL could introduce unforeseen risks for validators, potentially leading to instability or unintended consequences. However, many developers believe the upgrade’s advantages outweigh its potential downsides, particularly in upholding Ethereum’s core principles of decentralization and privacy.
The introduction of FOCIL reflects a broader push within the Ethereum community to align with cypherpunk values while maintaining practicality. By prioritizing censorship resistance and user empowerment, Ethereum aims to create a more resilient and inclusive network for the future. This upgrade not only addresses current challenges but also sets the stage for further innovation in decentralized technologies.
For crypto enthusiasts, this development highlights Ethereum’s ongoing evolution as a leader in blockchain technology. While debates over security, governance, and usability will continue, FOCIL underscores the network’s commitment to balancing these elements while staying true to its foundational principles. As the upgrade progresses, its success or failure could have significant implications for the broader crypto landscape, shaping how other networks approach similar challenges.
Verticals
cryptoweb3
Originally published on Decrypt on 2/21/2026