Ombudsman
Ombudsman is a term given to someone who is in charge of neutrally handling and replying to all the complaints about a particular organization.
The current ombudsman is Chris LaHatte; he assumed this position in July, 2011.[1]
ICANN Ombudsman
Responsibilities of the ICANN ombudsman include dispute resolution, filing complaints and taking actions in response to ICANN staff, board or supporting organization decisions.[2] ICANN is required to have a fair and impartial ombudsman.[3] ICANN first filled the position of ombudsman in late 2004.[4][5] The Ombudsman can only be removed by a three-fourths vote of the entire board.[6]
Responsibilities
The ICANN ombudsman has the powers to access all documents and files. He can take action if there is any behavior by ICANN board members and staff that is perceived as unfair, inappropriate, or illegal. He is required to submit an annual report to the ICANN Board. The ICANN ombudsman must adhere to the standard rules of The Ombudsman Association.[7]
Previous Ombudsmen
First Ombudsman
Frank Fowlie was selected to be the first ombudsman of ICANN in November, 2004. Mr. Fowlie is a native Canafian; he has over 20 years of experience as an ombudsman and conflict resolution officer for different companies in Canada and The USA.[8] After 6 years of service, Frank Fowlie resigned from his post in early 2011, he said that he was tired of the traveling requirements.[9]
Second Ombudsman
On 28 July, 2011 ICANN appointed Chris LaHatte as its new ombudsman. Chris is a senior mediator and lawyer. He obtained his graduate degree in law from University of Auckland. Further he studied dispute resolution from Massey University. He lives in New Zealand where he practices law. He is a Fellow of the Arbitrators and Mediators Institute of New Zealand and a mediator for the New Zealand Law Society. He is also a construction law adjudicator.[10]
External Links
- Reports and publications of Ombudsman Office.
- ICANN ombudsman blog.
- ICANN ombudman speeches.