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GNSO Review Frequently Asked Questions have now been translated into all UN Languages!
Background Information
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers ("ICANN") is seeking a provider to conduct an independent review of the Generic Names Supporting Organization (GNSO), as mandated by ICANN's Bylaws.
As part of ICANN's ongoing commitment to its evolution and improvement, Article IV – Section 4 of ICANN's Bylaws contains provisions for "periodic review of the performance and operation of each Supporting Organization, each Supporting Organization Council, each Advisory Committee (other than the Governmental Advisory Committee), and the Nominating Committee."
These periodic reviews present ICANN structures with opportunities for continuous improvement through consistent application of compliance review principles to objectively measure performance relative to specific and quantifiable criteria developed by ICANN based on the unique nature of its structures. The resulting implementation of improvements and the systematic means of measuring performance and validating effectiveness of implementation are of utmost importance to the ongoing legitimacy of ICANN.
The GNSO is the policy-making body responsible for generic Top-Level Domains, such as .COM, .NET, and .ORG. Its members include representatives from generic Top Level Domains (gTLD) registries, gTLDregistrars, intellectual property interest, Internet service providers, businesses and non-commercial interests. The GNSO strives to keep gTLDs operating in a fair, orderly fashion across one global Internet, while promoting innovation and competition.
Key Milestones
Given the significant increases in the number and nature of the generic Top Level Domains resulting from the recent launch of the New gTLD Program, the upcoming review of the GNSO is of critical importance to theICANN community. ICANN is planning to start the review on 1 July 2014, with an anticipated duration of 6 months. The primary schedule is as follows:
| ACTIVITY | DATES |
|---|---|
| RFP published | 21 April 2014 |
| Briefing with GNSO (webinar) | 7 May at 13:00 UTC |
| GNSO to identify GNSO Review Working Party | 14 May 2014 |
| Refine examination criteria | 30 May 2014 |
| Implement 360 assessment | 15 June 2014 |
| Board appointment of independent reviewer | 26 June 2014 |
| Start of review work | 1 July 2014 |
| Summary results from 360 Assessment | 30 July 2014 |
| Draft Report 1 | 30 September 2014 |
| Clarification and rebuttal from GNSO | 11-12 October 2014 |
| Draft Report 2 | 31 October 2014 |
| Public comment period | 1 November 2014 – 5 January 2015 |
| Final Report | 15 January 2015 |
| Preparation of Implementation Plan | 16 January – 20 February |
| Implement Recommendations | 1 March 2015 – 28 February 2016 |
Recent space activity
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