Joint ccNSO-GNSO Internationalized Domain Names Working Group

JIG stands for Joint ccNSO-GNSO Internationalized Domain Names Working Group. The main purpose of the JIG is to deal with various issues related to the introduction of Internationalized Domain Names (IDN) ccTLDs under the IDN ccTLD Fast Track Implementation Process. It also deals with issues related to the introduction of IDN gTLDs under the new gTLD implementation process. ^[1]

Background[edit | edit source]

During the ICANN meeting in Sydney (ICANN 35), the GNSO and ccNSO council came to a conclusion that there are certain issues or topics related to the introduction of IDN ccTLDs under the IDN ccTLDs Fast Track Implementation process and introduction of IDN gTLDs under the new gTLD Implementation Process of common interests of both GNSO and ccNSO. These issues were common to both the councils, so it was preferred that a collaborative working group was drafted which will address these topics or issues. On the basis of this a Joint Working Group (JIG) was tasked to identify, explore and research on the topics and issues which were common to both GNSO and ccNSO councils. Once the JIG identifies and explores such issue or topic, it will recommend the appropriate methodology to address these issues. However, it was commonly decided by both the councils that the ongoing implementation work of new gTLDs and IDN ccTLDs should not be delayed waiting for the reports from JIG. ^[2]

Scope[edit | edit source]

JIG should be concentrated on issues of common interest to both the ccNSO and the GNSO communities. In identifying issues and recommending various ways to resolve them, the JIG Working Group takes into account the following considerations.

It should predominantly focus on the maintaining the domain names in a secured and a stable environment.
While resolving the issues the working group should not only consider the IDN in Applications (IDNA) protocol and IDN Guidelines but also consider the updates in these protocol and guidelines.
The working group should consider the advice of the technical community while implementing the issues related to the IDNs.
It should take into account the GNSO Policy Recommendations on new gTLDs.
It should also consider the regular proposals made by IDNC working board while doing the research and recommending the methodologies for issues on IDN ccTLDs and new gTLDs.^[2]

Membership[edit | edit source]

The ccNSO Council (Country Code Names Supporting Organization) will appoint a maximum of 5 of its members to the Joint Working Group. Similarly, the GNSO will appoint maximum of 5 of its members to the Joint Working Group. These members will be appointed by both the councils on their own rules and procedures. The chairs of GNSO and ccNSO will act as ex-officio members of JIG. The chair of the JIG may seek assistance of the members from the ICANN’s technical community for their tasks. ICANN will provide additional support staff for the JIG whenever necessary.^[2]

Closure of JIG[edit | edit source]

When the new IDN ccTLD Fast Track Implementation Plan or new gTLD Process is successfully accepted by the ICANN Board of Directors, the WG will be closed, unless the ccNSO and the GNSO council extends the duration of JIG WG.^[2]