Groups in the Asia Pacific region involved in issues that affect individuals’ user of the Internet are encouraged to work together to inform and involve Asia Pacific's user community in ICANN, as well as in other international fora that may help shape the future of the Internet. Groups throughout the Asia Pacific region, and the rest of the world, that deal with individual Internet users' interests are encouraged to register and participate in ICANN by submitting a simple application form. Groups that meet the minimum requirements will be certified as "At-Large Structures."
WHY BECOME AN AT-LARGE STRUCTURE?
By being designated an At-Large Structure, your group gets:
- A recognized role in forming the policies that affect how individuals' use the Internet (ICANN is listening. Make sure your voice is heard!);
- Quick and easy access to first-hand information on what's happening in ICANN and why it matters to end-users;
- Opportunities to provide your members education on ICANN's work and Internet developments;
- Participation in building your region's At-Large organization (RALO), and opportunities to network with other groups in your country and region as At-Large grows;
- Representation in ICANN at the regional and international level, plus your group's members will be eligible to serve on important regional and international decision-making bodies in ICANN;
- A free web page and other Internet-based mechanisms to support your group's work;
- Opportunities for grant funding to support some of your group's activities (ALAC is applying for grant funding).
At-Large Structures are wholly independent from ICANN. Certification simply recognizes that a group meets ICANN's criteria for involving individual Internet users at the local or issue level in ICANN activities, and for promoting individuals' understanding of, and participation in, ICANN.
WHAT TYPE OF GROUPS CAN BE AT-LARGE STRUCTURES?
Any group that supports individuals' ability to share their views on ICANN issues, and that meets the few simple criteria listed at <www.alac.icann.org/applications/>, can apply to be an At-Large Structure. Types of groups that have been (or have expressed interest in being) designated At-Large Structures include:
- Professional societies (e.g. engineers, attorneys, etc.)
- Academic and research organizations
- Community networking groups
- Consumer advocacy groups
- Internet Society chapters
- Computer user organizations
- Internet civil society groups
For information on the groups which are already a part of At-Large in Asia-Pacific, and those who are being considered for accreditation, please go here.
If a group you are involved with wants to influence the decisions that shape the Internet, apply to be certified as an "At-Large Structure" and participate in ICANN decisions critical to the Internet's end users. “At-Large Structure” certification is free, easy, and done via email. Groups interested participating in ICANN At-Large are encouraged to complete an application available online (see below under Application Forms and email it to <als@alac.icann.org>.
Monthly Teleconferences
The APRALO is now meeting monthly on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 0500 UTC. Are you interested in getting involved in At-Large? Why don't you join a monthly teleconference and see what's happening. Look at the Meetings and Events page for the details on how to join the call.
Application Forms
Application forms in six other languages can be found at ICANN ALS Info Page
