GAC to ICANN: Limit Next Round of Fresh Top Level Domain Names
GAC asks ICANN to hold a limited fast-track round for fresh top level domain names.
Interim Chairman of the Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC) Heather Dryden has sent a letter (pdf) to ICANN urging it to limit the number of fresh top level domain names in the next round by holding a “fast track” process:
The GAC concludes therefore that an initial fast track round for a limited number of non-controversial applications which ought to include a representative but diverse sample of community, cultural and geographical applications, would be a preferable course for ICANN to take rather than a single open-ended launch. Ensuring equity and fair play in the application process for this limited first round would require a fully open community discussion and clear direction in the applicant guidebook. The GAC recommends that ICANN undertake a full review of the results of the fast track process ahead of embarking on subsequent rounds.
The letter sent on behalf of GAC also addresses the market and economic impacts of fresh TLDs, registry-registrar separation, intellectual property (counting asking for the Trademark Clearing House to allow all nationally registered trademarks counting those not substantially reviewed to be included), and geographical names.
