CcNSO
 | |
| Type: | Supporting Organization |
| Industry: | ccTLDs |
| Founded: | 2003 |
| Website: | CCNSO.ICANN.org |
ccNSO is the acronym for Country Code Names Supporting Organization, which is an advisory body within ICANN created by and for ccTLD managers.
Overview[edit | edit source]
The CcNSO was founded in 2003 and since then this organization has been a highly effective forum for ccTLD managers from all over the world. The ccNSO is the forum for any discussions and debates regarding issues related to ccTLDs, from both a global and regional perspective.
In order to nurture consensus, the ccNSO also offers a platform for technical cooperation and development of practical skills for ccTLD managers. The best practices among ccTLD managers are shared within forum for improved development and cooperation.[1]
During the last few years of activity, the ccNSO has mainly focused and worked on the development of fast track ccTLD introduction in conjunction with IDNs, as well as the implementation of ccTLD changes according to ICANN's bylaws.[2]
ccNSO Membership[edit | edit source]
In order to become a ccNSO member an application must be filled out; however, there are no fees or costs incurred by becoming a ccNSO member. Joining ccNSO is easy, but is limited to to ccTLD Managers (this is according to the ICANN Bylaws Article IX).[3]
The following rules apply:
- Membership of the CcNSO is open for all ccTLD managers responsible for managing an ISO 3166 country-code top-level domain;[4]
- Any organization managing an IDN ccTLD is eligible for ccNSO membership;
- In the case where one entity manages more than one ccTLD only one membership to the ccNSO is accepted;
- Multiple memberships are not given to entities which work with synchronized ccTLDS.[5]
ccNSO Responsibilities[edit | edit source]
Besides supplying and providing a platform for technical cooperation and a forum for ccTLD related problems and issues, the ccNSO has other responsibilities, such as:
- The responsibility for development of global policies for the ICANN Board related to ccTLD issues.
- The responsibility for policy development process which is attributed to CcNSO Council. This Council which is formed by 18 Councilors (15b elected and 3 automatically nominated by ICANN Nominating Committee);
- CcNSO must always cooperate with ccTLD managers and stakeholders of ICANN;
- The CcNSO has the responsibility to divide in teams and works as Working Groups. However, within these working Groups there are accepted any CcNSO members or non-CcNSO members as well as ccTLD managers.