> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://frameworks.greendealdata.eu/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://frameworks.greendealdata.eu/contractual-frameworks.md).

# Contractual Frameworks

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*This section might be updated based on the latest developments in the SAGE consortium, specifically considering WP4, WP7, including inputs from T4.5 GDDS Legal and T7.4 Legal and Regulatory compliance. Since the project runs till 2028, the final GDDS deliverable is expected to have additional information on these sections.*
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Within the Green Deal Data Space (GDDS), the contractual framework serves as the foundation for establishing trust and ensuring clarity in how participants interact with each other, and how participants take part/engage in the GDDS and interact with each other. It translates the governance principles and legal requirements into practical agreements that regulate roles, rights, and obligations. By setting common terms, conditions, and templates, the contractual framework helps participants avoid ambiguity, reduces negotiation costs, and accelerates onboarding. Ultimately, this framework provides the legal “glue” that holds the ecosystem together, enabling fair, transparent, and consistent collaboration. 

Combining the Commission’s “Model contractual terms (MCT) on data access and use” with the DSSC’s contractual architecture, we can foresee two contractual layers for the GDDS: 

* The Data Space Level Agreement (DSLA): which is the overarching governance agreement that every participant signs with the DIS provider or managing entity. It sets out the governance model, membership conditions, interoperability requirements, compliance rules, and the legal obligations of the DGA. 
* The Transaction-Level Data Sharing Agreement (TDSA): This is a bilateral or multilateral contract between participants for a specific data exchange within the data space. It draws heavily on the B2B MCT structure but applies it within the boundaries of the DSLA. It specifies the exact data, purposes, access model, security measures, liability, and compensation for a particular transaction, but is always subordinated to the governance rules contained in the DSLA. 

Based on the latest co- creation session within the SAGE consortium, the structure of the participation agreement was discussed. This is the contractual instrument through which a participant formally commits to the GDDS. The following structure is agreed: 

* A single participation agreement is the preferred approach. Participants execute one agreement that covers their full participation in GDDS, regardless of the number of roles they hold. 
* The agreement contains role-specific sections or schedules. The role(s) selected by the participant at admission determine which sections of the agreement apply to them and must be accepted. 
* Rulebook acceptance is role-based. Participants accept the Rulebook sections relevant to their selected role(s) at the time of onboarding. Changes to role selection post-onboarding trigger a review of the applicable agreement sections. 
* Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for specific participant types — notably Service Providers — are attached to the agreements, or incorporated in the Rulebook
* GDPR is included where the participant's role and the nature of the data being shared require them. 

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*This section will further include the Contractual templates in PDF format, attached so that participants can use them upon need or request. The first draft of the templates will be included by the end of July 2026, as WP4 is progressing with the work.* 
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