ICANN’s Crucial Decision: Embracing In-Person Engagement for the Seattle Annual General Meeting

Tomorrow marks a critical juncture for the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) as its Board of Directors meets to determine the format of its highly anticipated Annual General Meeting (AGM), slated for Seattle this October. The prevailing sentiment within the global multi-stakeholder community is clear: it is time to transition back to allowing in-person attendance for any community member willing and able to participate. This decision is not merely about logistics; it’s about revitalizing the very essence of ICANN’s collaborative model and fostering the deep connections that drive global internet governance forward.

The Imperative for Reconnecting: Two Years Apart

By October, it will have been a full two years since the ICANN community last gathered physically. The unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a complete pivot to virtual meetings, a transformation that ICANN, to its immense credit, navigated with remarkable success. Its adeptness at organizing and facilitating online conferences has kept the wheels of internet governance turning, ensuring vital policy discussions and decisions continued uninterrupted during a period of global uncertainty.

ICANN’s proficiency in the digital realm has indeed offered invaluable flexibility. For years, active participation in the ICANN process often demanded extensive international travel, a significant barrier for many. The advent of robust online meeting capabilities has democratized access, allowing individuals from diverse geographical and socioeconomic backgrounds to contribute without the logistical and financial burdens of travel. This choice—between virtual and, hopefully soon, in-person—has empowered a broader spectrum of stakeholders to engage. While some find the convenience and focus of online participation superior, a substantial portion of the community yearns for the unique benefits only an in-person gathering can provide.

The Undeniable Value of In-Person Engagement

Despite the undeniable advantages of virtual platforms, the value of physical meetings remains unparalleled for fostering a truly robust and interconnected community. In-person gatherings offer a depth of interaction that virtual environments struggle to replicate. They facilitate spontaneous networking, those crucial “corridor conversations” where breakthroughs often occur, and informal discussions that build trust and understanding far beyond the confines of a structured agenda. For the complex, multi-stakeholder environment of ICANN, where consensus-building and nuanced diplomacy are paramount, these serendipitous interactions are not merely bonuses; they are foundational to effective governance.

Furthermore, face-to-face meetings significantly enhance opportunities for mentorship and onboarding new participants. Novices can more easily immerse themselves in the community, connect with experienced members, and gain a holistic understanding of the intricate ICANN ecosystem. The non-verbal cues, shared meals, and informal social events inherent to physical meetings cultivate a sense of belonging and camaraderie that strengthens the fabric of the global internet governance community, promoting a more cohesive and resilient stakeholder base.

The Efficacy and Evolution of Hybrid Models

ICANN has also demonstrated considerable skill in executing hybrid meetings, successfully integrating both local and virtual attendees into a cohesive experience. This expertise positions the organization perfectly to host a hybrid AGM in Seattle, offering the best of both worlds. A well-designed hybrid event acknowledges the continuing need for accessibility for those unable to travel while simultaneously providing the rich, immersive experience for those who can. It’s an approach that respects individual circumstances without compromising the collective benefits of physical congregation.

Investing in cutting-edge technology and thoughtful logistical planning for a truly seamless hybrid experience should be a priority. This would ensure that virtual participants remain fully engaged, with real-time interaction capabilities, while in-person attendees benefit from direct dialogue and networking. Such a model reinforces ICANN’s commitment to inclusivity and adaptability, demonstrating that it can evolve to meet the community’s diverse needs in a post-pandemic world.

Navigating the New Normal: Addressing Challenges Head-On

It is an undeniable reality that global disparities continue to present challenges. Vaccination rates vary significantly across regions, and international travel restrictions may still affect participants from certain countries. Budgetary constraints, too, remain a persistent factor for many. These issues are not likely to disappear entirely in the immediate future; indeed, some form of travel friction may persist for at least another year, if not longer, even beyond the acute phase of the pandemic.

Acknowledging Global Disparities and Travel Realities

While these challenges are real and must be acknowledged, they should not serve as an indefinite impediment to restoring critical in-person interactions for those who are able to attend. To exclude everyone because some cannot participate would be to penalize the entire community for circumstances largely beyond ICANN’s immediate control. The goal should be to maximize participation in the safest and most equitable way possible, not to settle for the lowest common denominator.

Implementing Robust Health and Safety Protocols

The community is not oblivious to the ongoing health concerns. There is a clear readiness and willingness among stakeholders to adhere to necessary health and safety protocols. As a recent survey highlighted, the ICANN community is prepared to navigate the practical hassles that accompany current everyday life, from mask mandates to testing requirements. ICANN’s Board has the responsibility to implement robust, evidence-based safeguards, such as vaccination verification, mandatory mask-wearing, readily available testing facilities, and appropriate social distancing measures within meeting venues. By doing so, ICANN can create an environment that minimizes risks while maximizing the benefits of physical interaction.

While attendance might be lower than pre-pandemic levels, it will undoubtedly be significantly higher than the entirely virtual meetings of the past two years. This incremental step back towards normalcy is vital for the community’s morale and the long-term health of the multi-stakeholder model.

Beyond the Screen: Fostering a Resilient ICANN Community

The Psychological and Social Benefits of Reuniting

The psychological impact of reuniting in person cannot be overstated. After prolonged periods of virtual interaction, “Zoom fatigue” is a recognized phenomenon that can diminish engagement and motivation. Physical meetings offer a refreshing change of pace, fostering renewed energy and enthusiasm among participants. The opportunity to meet colleagues and collaborators face-to-face, to share a coffee or a meal, and to simply be in the same physical space, provides a powerful morale boost and strengthens the collective identity of the ICANN community. This social rejuvenation is crucial for sustaining long-term commitment and preventing burnout among dedicated volunteers and staff.

Setting a Precedent for Future Engagement

The decision regarding ICANN72 in Seattle will set a significant precedent for future meetings. It will demonstrate ICANN’s leadership in adapting to a dynamic global landscape while remaining steadfast in its commitment to its core principles of open, inclusive, and transparent governance. By embracing a carefully managed return to in-person components, ICANN can continue to evolve its meeting strategy, balancing global accessibility with the irreplaceable value of direct human interaction. This proactive approach will help shape the future of global collaboration within the internet ecosystem, ensuring ICANN remains at the forefront of facilitating critical dialogue and decision-making.

In conclusion, the time for cautious yet decisive action is now. ICANN’s Board of Directors has an opportunity to re-energize its global community by approving in-person attendance for the Seattle AGM. While not everyone will be able to join, that should not be a reason to deny this crucial opportunity to those who can. Subject to the implementation of all necessary health and safety restrictions, embracing in-person participation will reaffirm ICANN’s dedication to its multi-stakeholder model, foster deeper collaboration, and pave the way for a more robust and resilient future for internet governance. Let us move forward, together, towards a revitalized era of engagement.