Each open source project has its own governance model. Some are more hierarchical than others and some are more flat. OSS Watch is preparing a document about different examples of Open Source Governance Models. This is the part related with Debian that I wrote some weeks ago:
The project Debian tries to create a Linux based distribution and I think there is little need to introduce the project further. Debian is the heart of the Ubuntu distribution.
The governance model in Debian is motivated to create a strong democratic model. The hierarchy inside the community is intended to be mostly flat. All the members of the Debian organisation, called Debian Developers, have the same rights (with a few exceptions). Developers join Debian through a convoluted process of interview (including technical and philosophical aspects), GPG keysignings and apprenticeship. Candidates need aslo an advocate inside the organization to recommend them.
The reason for this strict procedure lies in Debian packages being installed in computers with root privileges. Packages may maliciously or accidentally cause important harm. The admission process is intended to test both philosophical ideas and technical skills of the candidates.
However this strict process has made necessary a new role inside the project: Debian Maintainers. A Debian Maintainers are people who are not full developers but have a restricted ability to upload packages to the Debian archive. They need to be advocate to sponsor them and have limited rights inside the project and they cannot vote on project decisions.
Developers select one of their number as project leader annually. Project leader delegates responsibility for different roles within the project. Tension exists because many developers have been in role since before leaders were elected. The Debian Social Contract and the Debian Free Software Guidelines are the central documents guiding the community and everyone should agree those document before joining the community.
More information: