> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.unizen.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.unizen.io/introduction-to-unizen/unizen-overview/unizen-interoperability-protocol-uip/debridge.md). # DeBridge **deBridge is** **a** **secure interoperability layer for Web3** that enables decentralized transfers of arbitrary messages and value between various blockchains. The validation of cross-chain transactions is performed by a network of independent validators who are elected by and work for deBridge governance. Validators maintain the blockchain infrastructure and each run a deBridge node to sign all transactions that pass through deBridge smart contracts in different blockchains. [Delegated staking and slashing](broken://pages/-Mf5FVqSjEbcRQKG-JKP) mechanics act as a backbone for protocol security and provide economic disincentives for validators to collude. The deBridge protocol is an infrastructure platform and a framework for: * decentralized transfer of arbitrary data and assets * cross-chain interoperability and composability of smart contracts * cross-chain swaps * interoperability and bridging of NFTs Projects can integrate with deBridge infrastructure to tap into the various cross-chain opportunities that we enable. These can for instance be: * Build own custom bridges for assets and NFTs preserving custom NFT logic (e.g. breeding) * Enable users from other blockchain ecosystems interact with their protocol (enable global accessibility) * Scale up their protocol to other chains and exchange commands/messages between components of their protocol * Make their protocol composable with protocols from other ecosystems * Build new types of cross-chain applications and primitives * Enable global accessibility by letting users and protocols from other chains seamlessly interact with the protocol --- # 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://docs.unizen.io/introduction-to-unizen/unizen-overview/unizen-interoperability-protocol-uip/debridge.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.