Changes

'''Community TLD applicants have organized into an informal group to represent their interests in the ICANN process.''' The group is called the "Community TLD Applicant Group" or CTAG. Participation is open to community TLD applicants only and has over thirty active members. The group can be contacted via its Twitter handle [https://twitter.com/TheCTAG @TheCTAG]

'''Community TLD applicants have organized into an informal group to represent their interests in the ICANN process.''' The group is called the [[Community TLD Applicant Group|Community TLD Applicant Group (CTAG)]]. Participation is open to community TLD applicants only and has over thirty active members. The group can be contacted via its Twitter handle [https://twitter.com/TheCTAG @TheCTAG]

1. <big>'''[[.art]]'''</big>, is one of the most highly contested strings, with a total of 10 applicants, which include 2 competitive [[Community gTLD|community priority applicants]].

1. <big>'''[[.bank]]'''</big>, has been applied for by two applicants, with only one, [[fTLD Registry Services LLC]] applying as a community applicant. That company is a partnership between the [[American Bankers Association]] (ABA) & [[BITS]], the technology policy arm of the Financial Services Roundtable.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/bits-may-apply-for-six-financial-gtlds/ BITS may apply for six financial gTLDs]</ref> The ABA and Roundtable initiative is endorsed by the Australian Bankers' Association, American Bankers Insurance Association, British Bankers' Association, European Banking Federation, Independent Community Bankers of America, the International Banking Federation, and numerous financial services institutions.<ref>[http://insurancenewsnet.com/article.aspx?id=344544 ABA and the Financial Services Roundtable Apply for Financial Domains to Protect Consumers]</ref>  

 

 

 

 

2. <big>'''[[.bank]]'''</big>, has been applied for by two applicants, with only one, [[fTLD Registry Services LLC]] applying as a community applicant. That company is a partnership between the [[American Bankers Association]] (ABA) & [[BITS]], the technology policy arm of the Financial Services Roundtable.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/bits-may-apply-for-six-financial-gtlds/ BITS may apply for six financial gTLDs]</ref> The ABA and Roundtable initiative is endorsed by the Australian Bankers' Association, American Bankers Insurance Association, British Bankers' Association, European Banking Federation, Independent Community Bankers of America, the International Banking Federation, and numerous financial services institutions.<ref>[http://insurancenewsnet.com/article.aspx?id=344544 ABA and the Financial Services Roundtable Apply for Financial Domains to Protect Consumers]</ref>

The non-community applicant for [[.bank]] is [[Radix]], a portfolio applicant and subsidiary of [[Directi]] that has applied for 31 new gTLDs.

The non-community applicant for [[.bank]] is [[Radix]], a portfolio applicant and subsidiary of [[Directi]] that has applied for 31 new gTLDs.

3. '''<big>[[.cpa]]'''</big>, there are a total of 5 applicants submitting 6 applications for [[.cpa]]; one of the applicants, The [[American Institute of Certified Public Accountants]], has submitted a community priority application and a general application, this is done to ensure that the applicant still has a chance to manage the TLD even if it is denied community status by [[ICANN]]. The other community priority applicant is the [[CPA AUSTRALIA LTD]].

2. '''<big>[[.cpa]]''', there are a total of 5 applicants submitting 6 applications for [[.cpa]]; one of the applicants, The [[American Institute of Certified Public Accountants]], has submitted a community priority application and a general application, this is done to ensure that the applicant still has a chance to manage the TLD even if it is denied community status by [[ICANN]]. The other community priority applicant is the [[CPA AUSTRALIA LTD]].

The [[American Institute of Certified Public Accountants]] "set the professional and administrative standards for all CPA in the United States..[it] both administers and grades the professional examination required to obtain a CPA... It is the AICPA members – whose number currently amounts to about 377,000 members in 128 countries – and their needs that the Applicant is committed to serve since its establishment more than 100 years ago." The AICPA has international affiliates, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia. Their registration polices state that, "[a]t least during the initial months or even years following the delegation of the .cpa gTLD to the Applicant, this extension is likely going to be a so-called “single registrant TLD”..where “(i) all domain name registrations in the TLD are registered to, and maintained by, Registry Operator for its own exclusive use, and (ii) Registry Operator does not sell, distribute or transfer control or use of any registrations in the TLD to any third party that is not an Affiliate of Registry Operator.” The AICPA goes on to state that it foresees a time when "its Affiliates, individual members and possibly third parties who perform services or offer products to the benefit of the Applicant’s members, will possibly be entitled to register domain names in .cpa."<ref>Application 1-1911-56672</ref>

The [[American Institute of Certified Public Accountants]] "set the professional and administrative standards for all CPA in the United States..[it] both administers and grades the professional examination required to obtain a CPA... It is the AICPA members – whose number currently amounts to about 377,000 members in 128 countries – and their needs that the Applicant is committed to serve since its establishment more than 100 years ago." The AICPA has international affiliates, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia. Their registration polices state that, "[a]t least during the initial months or even years following the delegation of the .cpa gTLD to the Applicant, this extension is likely going to be a so-called “single registrant TLD”..where “(i) all domain name registrations in the TLD are registered to, and maintained by, Registry Operator for its own exclusive use, and (ii) Registry Operator does not sell, distribute or transfer control or use of any registrations in the TLD to any third party that is not an Affiliate of Registry Operator.” The AICPA goes on to state that it foresees a time when "its Affiliates, individual members and possibly third parties who perform services or offer products to the benefit of the Applicant’s members, will possibly be entitled to register domain names in .cpa."<ref>Application 1-1911-56672</ref>

4 of the applications for [[.cpa]] applications were issued a [[GAC]] Early Warning from the representative of Australia and GAC Chair, [[Heather Dryden]]. These include both of the community applications, the general application from the [[American Institute of Certified Public Accountants]], and a generic application from the portfolio applicant [[Donuts]]. Two other applicants for [[.cpa]] were not given warnings. The warning system is noted as a strong recommendation on behalf of national governments to the [[ICANN Board]] that a given TLD application should be denied as it stands. Applicants are encouraged to work with objecting GAC members.<ref>[http://newgtlds.icann.org/en/applicants/gac-early-warning GAC Early Warning, NewgTLDS.ICANN.org] Retrieved 24 Nov 2012</ref> The warnings issued note that the application does not have sufficient protective mechanisms in place to prevent consumer harm in what is a regulated market (certified public accounting).<ref>[https://gacweb.icann.org/download/attachments/22938690/CPA-AU-59458.pdf?version=1&modificationDate=1353386477000 CPA AU, GACweb.ICANN.org]</ref>

<nowiki> </nowiki>of the applications for [[.cpa]] applications were issued a [[GAC]] Early Warning from the representative of Australia and GAC Chair, [[Heather Dryden]]. These include both of the community applications, the general application from the [[American Institute of Certified Public Accountants]], and a generic application from the portfolio applicant [[Donuts]]. Two other applicants for [[.cpa]] were not given warnings. The warning system is noted as a strong recommendation on behalf of national governments to the [[ICANN Board]] that a given TLD application should be denied as it stands. Applicants are encouraged to work with objecting GAC members.<ref>[http://newgtlds.icann.org/en/applicants/gac-early-warning GAC Early Warning, NewgTLDS.ICANN.org] Retrieved 24 Nov 2012</ref> The warnings issued note that the application does not have sufficient protective mechanisms in place to prevent consumer harm in what is a regulated market (certified public accounting).<ref>[https://gacweb.icann.org/download/attachments/22938690/CPA-AU-59458.pdf?version=1&modificationDate=1353386477000 CPA AU, GACweb.ICANN.org]</ref>

4. <big>'''[[.eco]]'''</big>, There are 4 applications for [[.eco]], including the one community application from [[Big Room Inc.]]. "In 2009, Big Room, itself a Certified B Corporation obliged to consider environmental, social and financial interests, launched an international multi-year stakeholder consultation process with the Community on the potential for .ECO to exist as a Community TLD. The process included 7 in-person consultations on 5 continents. Draft policies were published for 3 public comment periods of at least 30 days each...Since establishment, this international multi-stakeholder community council, made up of leading environmental organizations including WWF International, Greenpeace International, Green Cross International and others, has worked to define the mission, purpose and policies for a .ECO Community TLD that reflects the Community’s interests. The council’s work included 2 in-person meetings (Brussels ⁄ Washington, DC) and more than 20 conference calls between members. In September 2010, the council unanimously adopted a charter for the .ECO Community TLD - the .ECO Policy Consensus. The purpose and principles outlined in the .ECO Policy Consensus define what .ECO will mean as an active expression of the goals, values and interests of the Community. The Consensus has been reviewed and affirmed by the Big Room board of directors."

3. <big>'''[[.eco]]'''</big>, There are 4 applications for [[.eco]], including the one community application from [[Big Room Inc.]]. "In 2009, Big Room, itself a Certified B Corporation obliged to consider environmental, social and financial interests, launched an international multi-year stakeholder consultation process with the Community on the potential for .ECO to exist as a Community TLD. The process included 7 in-person consultations on 5 continents. Draft policies were published for 3 public comment periods of at least 30 days each...Since establishment, this international multi-stakeholder community council, made up of leading environmental organizations including WWF International, Greenpeace International, Green Cross International and others, has worked to define the mission, purpose and policies for a .ECO Community TLD that reflects the Community’s interests. The council’s work included 2 in-person meetings (Brussels ⁄ Washington, DC) and more than 20 conference calls between members. In September 2010, the council unanimously adopted a charter for the .ECO Community TLD - the .ECO Policy Consensus. The purpose and principles outlined in the .ECO Policy Consensus define what .ECO will mean as an active expression of the goals, values and interests of the Community. The Consensus has been reviewed and affirmed by the Big Room board of directors."

Eligibility for registration will be based on responses to questions about the environmental performance, commitments and actions of registrants, within the context of the purpose, type and location of the registrant. Responses will be compiled and posted into a public ".ECO-Profile". The .ECO profiles will be aggregated into a common online platform called the ".ECO System". This process is described in detail in Big Room's application and was designed in collaboration with and approved by the global environmental community. The process is designed to encourage action in support of environmental goals, foster environmental transparency, and allow for broad participation in registering .ECO domains.<ref>Application 1-912-59314</ref>

Eligibility for registration will be based on responses to questions about the environmental performance, commitments and actions of registrants, within the context of the purpose, type and location of the registrant. Responses will be compiled and posted into a public ".ECO-Profile". The .ECO profiles will be aggregated into a common online platform called the ".ECO System". This process is described in detail in Big Room's application and was designed in collaboration with and approved by the global environmental community. The process is designed to encourage action in support of environmental goals, foster environmental transparency, and allow for broad participation in registering .ECO domains.<ref>Application 1-912-59314</ref>

5. <big>'''[[.gay]]'''</big> There are 4 total applicants for the [[.gay]] TLD, including one community applicant, [[dotgay LLC]]. The company is supported by the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA), National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) and the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, New York (NGLCCNY). dotgay LLC plans to donate 67% of the revenue generated from the sales of .gay domain names to non-profit LGBT organizations.<ref>[http://dotgay.com/ About dotgay]</ref> Their registration policies will include participation by "authentication partners", which will be gay and lesbian membership organization, ".gay is restricted to members of the Gay Community. Eligibility is determined through formal membership with any of dotgay LLC’s Authentication Partners (AP) from the community." Generic terms, such as "travel", will be reserved at the second level to create community resources, i.e. "travel.gay". <ref>gTLD Application 1-1713-23699</ref>

4. <big>'''[[.gay]]'''</big> There are 4 total applicants for the [[.gay]] TLD, including one community applicant, [[dotgay LLC]]. The company is supported by the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA), National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) and the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, New York (NGLCCNY). dotgay LLC plans to donate 67% of the revenue generated from the sales of .gay domain names to non-profit LGBT organizations.<ref>[http://dotgay.com/ About dotgay]</ref> Their registration policies will include participation by "authentication partners", which will be gay and lesbian membership organization, ".gay is restricted to members of the Gay Community. Eligibility is determined through formal membership with any of dotgay LLC’s Authentication Partners (AP) from the community." Generic terms, such as "travel", will be reserved at the second level to create community resources, i.e. "travel.gay". <ref>gTLD Application 1-1713-23699</ref>

6. <big>'''[[.gmbh]]'''</big>, there are 6 applicants for [[.gmbh]], one of them being a community application submitted by [[TLDDOT GmbH]]. The CEO of the company is the long-time ICANN participant, [[Dirk Krischenowski]]. GmbH is an acronym for the German corporate mark "Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung",  which means "company with limited liability". The designation is equivalent to an LLC mark elsewhere, and it is used in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. The applicant delineates the GmbH community along 3 layers: first, the Government, responsible for the oversight of the title; second, Chambers and Associations, which represent whole collections of GmbH companies, and are sometimes required to exist by law; and thirdly, the GmbH companies themselves.  

5. <big>'''[[.gmbh]]'''</big>, there are 6 applicants for [[.gmbh]], one of them being a community application submitted by [[TLDDOT GmbH]]. The CEO of the company is the long-time ICANN participant, [[Dirk Krischenowski]]. GmbH is an acronym for the German corporate mark "Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung",  which means "company with limited liability". The designation is equivalent to an LLC mark elsewhere, and it is used in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. The applicant delineates the GmbH community along 3 layers: first, the Government, responsible for the oversight of the title; second, Chambers and Associations, which represent whole collections of GmbH companies, and are sometimes required to exist by law; and thirdly, the GmbH companies themselves.  

The applicant sees itself as a member and leader of the community, as it is itself a GmbH; that it has worked with the government's of the respective countries using GmbH within [[ICANN]]'s GAC; and that it has maintained relations with major GmbH associations, such as the BVMW (The German Association for Small and Medium-sized Businesses). The only letter of support that is attached to its application is a letter from the latter association, which is the largest such association in Germany.<ref>Application 1-1273-63351</ref>

The applicant sees itself as a member and leader of the community, as it is itself a GmbH; that it has worked with the government's of the respective countries using GmbH within [[ICANN]]'s GAC; and that it has maintained relations with major GmbH associations, such as the BVMW (The German Association for Small and Medium-sized Businesses). The only letter of support that is attached to its application is a letter from the latter association, which is the largest such association in Germany.<ref>Application 1-1273-63351</ref>

7. <big>'''[[.hotel]]'''</big>The 7 applications for [[.hotel]] include one [[Community TLD|community priority applicant]], [[HOTEL Top-Level-Domain S.a.r.l]]. Registration would be restricted to hotels, hotel chains, hotel associations, and marketing or other representative organizations that work directly for hotels and hotel chains. The applicant is a member of 4 hotel associations, which support its application; the CEO of [[HOTEL Top-Level-Domain S.a.r.l]], [[Johannes Lenz-Hawliczek]], serves on the board of directors for the International Hotel & Restaurant Association; and the applicant has secured endorsement from the organizations to which it belongs, and other international and regional hotel associations - with 5 total letters attached to its application.  

6. <big>'''[[.hotel]]'''</big>The 7 applications for [[.hotel]] include one [[Community TLD|community priority applicant]], [[HOTEL Top-Level-Domain S.a.r.l]]. Registration would be restricted to hotels, hotel chains, hotel associations, and marketing or other representative organizations that work directly for hotels and hotel chains. The applicant is a member of 4 hotel associations, which support its application; the CEO of [[HOTEL Top-Level-Domain S.a.r.l]], [[Johannes Lenz-Hawliczek]], serves on the board of directors for the International Hotel & Restaurant Association; and the applicant has secured endorsement from the organizations to which it belongs, and other international and regional hotel associations - with 5 total letters attached to its application.  

A post-registration verification process will be put in place; whereby the domain can be registered but not fully implemented until the registrant is authorized as a legitimate member of the hotel community. "For evaluation purposes industry databases will be used, like hotel association databases or other electronically available databases. Within 48 hours after registration started, the registry will provide the evaluation result to the registrar.. Once reviewed the reviewer will confirm or deny the registration."<ref>Application 1-1032-95136</ref>

A post-registration verification process will be put in place; whereby the domain can be registered but not fully implemented until the registrant is authorized as a legitimate member of the hotel community. "For evaluation purposes industry databases will be used, like hotel association databases or other electronically available databases. Within 48 hours after registration started, the registry will provide the evaluation result to the registrar.. Once reviewed the reviewer will confirm or deny the registration."<ref>Application 1-1032-95136</ref>

8. <big>'''[[.insurance]]'''</big>, there are 4 applicants for [[.insurance]], including one [[Community TLD|community priority application]] from [[fTLD Registry Services LLC]] (FRS). FRS is a joint partnership between the [[American Bankers Association]] (ABA) and the [[Financial Services Roundtable]. "At the behest and approval of both the ABA and the Roundtable members and Boards, FRS was formed in 2011 for the explicit purpose of applying for and operating financial services-related gTLDs. In addition, FRS seeks to protect the brand space, improve the protection available for a more secure Internet ecosystem, collaborate on delivering more innovative and secure products and services, and zealously advocate for the interests of the insurance community with ICANN."

7. <big>'''[[.insurance]]'''</big>, there are 4 applicants for [[.insurance]], including one [[Community TLD|community priority application]] from [[fTLD Registry Services LLC]] (FRS). FRS is a joint partnership between the [[American Bankers Association]] (ABA) and the [[Financial Services Roundtable]. "At the behest and approval of both the ABA and the Roundtable members and Boards, FRS was formed in 2011 for the explicit purpose of applying for and operating financial services-related gTLDs. In addition, FRS seeks to protect the brand space, improve the protection available for a more secure Internet ecosystem, collaborate on delivering more innovative and secure products and services, and zealously advocate for the interests of the insurance community with ICANN."

"The .insurance gTLD will be operated by FRS on behalf of the U.S. insurance industry. This includes 3,750 companies (according to a 2010 report by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners) and 2,250,000 agents and brokers (according to a 2010 report by the National Insurance Producer Registry). It also includes over 233 state insurance associations and 52 other types of insurance-related associations. As of April 10, 2012, endorsers of the FRS .insurance initiative include the American Bankers Insurance Association, The Allstate Corporation, Nationwide, Prudential Financial, Inc., and State Farm Insurance Companies."

"The .insurance gTLD will be operated by FRS on behalf of the U.S. insurance industry. This includes 3,750 companies (according to a 2010 report by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners) and 2,250,000 agents and brokers (according to a 2010 report by the National Insurance Producer Registry). It also includes over 233 state insurance associations and 52 other types of insurance-related associations. As of April 10, 2012, endorsers of the FRS .insurance initiative include the American Bankers Insurance Association, The Allstate Corporation, Nationwide, Prudential Financial, Inc., and State Farm Insurance Companies."

9. <big>'''[[.kids]]'''</big>, the [[TLD]], [[.kids]], has been applied for by two parties; [[Amazon]] has applied for it as a generic TLD, while the [[DotKids Foundation Limited]] has applied for it as a [[Community TLD]]. The kids community includes kids (defined by the U.N. as any human under the age of 18), Parents and educators, Charities NGOs and Governmental instituions and educational instituions. The applicant has received a number of endorsements, especially from individuals and organizations based in Hong Kong, where the applicant is also based.  

8. <big>'''[[.kids]]'''</big>, the [[TLD]], [[.kids]], has been applied for by two parties; [[Amazon]] has applied for it as a generic TLD, while the [[DotKids Foundation Limited]] has applied for it as a [[Community TLD]]. The kids community includes kids (defined by the U.N. as any human under the age of 18), Parents and educators, Charities NGOs and Governmental instituions and educational instituions. The applicant has received a number of endorsements, especially from individuals and organizations based in Hong Kong, where the applicant is also based.  

"The Registry intends to remain independent to the community.  However, the Registry will work closely with community organizations and will invite community organizations in its policy development processes and governance structure. Also, we see the participation from the community crucial to our success." The applicant intends to restrict registration to kids-centric organizations and services, and registrants must adhere to a policy that limits their content to only beneficial, kid-centric material.<ref>Application 1-1309-46695</ref>

"The Registry intends to remain independent to the community.  However, the Registry will work closely with community organizations and will invite community organizations in its policy development processes and governance structure. Also, we see the participation from the community crucial to our success." The applicant intends to restrict registration to kids-centric organizations and services, and registrants must adhere to a policy that limits their content to only beneficial, kid-centric material.<ref>Application 1-1309-46695</ref>

10. <big>'''[[.med]]'''</big>, there are 4 applications for [[.med]], two of them being community priority applications. The two community applicants are [[DocCheck AG]] and [[HEXAP SAS]]. However, the former '''withdrew its application''' after [[.med]] received a number of objections filed by the [[Independent Objector]], a neutral legal expert funded by [[ICANN]] to object to applications that endanger the public good. It had withdrawn as of March 15th 2013, just days after the IO's objections were announced, qualifying for a 70% refund of its $185,000 application fee.<ref>[http://www.thedomains.com/2013/03/15/one-of-the-applicant-for-med-withdraws-its-new-gtld-application/?fb_source=pubv1 One of the Applicant for Med Withdraws Its New gTLD Application, TheDomains.com] Published and Retrieved 15 Mar 2013</ref>

9. <big>'''[[.med]]'''</big>, there are 4 applications for [[.med]], two of them being community priority applications. The two community applicants are [[DocCheck AG]] and [[HEXAP SAS]]. However, the former '''withdrew its application''' after [[.med]] received a number of objections filed by the [[Independent Objector]], a neutral legal expert funded by [[ICANN]] to object to applications that endanger the public good. It had withdrawn as of March 15th 2013, just days after the IO's objections were announced, qualifying for a 70% refund of its $185,000 application fee.<ref>[http://www.thedomains.com/2013/03/15/one-of-the-applicant-for-med-withdraws-its-new-gtld-application/?fb_source=pubv1 One of the Applicant for Med Withdraws Its New gTLD Application, TheDomains.com] Published and Retrieved 15 Mar 2013</ref>

[[DocCheck AG]] defined the community as falling into 6 groups: Medical, Scientific-Technical, Nursing/Assisting, Pharmacy, Collegiate, and Business/Publishing. DocCheck is known for its DocCheck.com site, which is the largest community of healthcare professionals in Europe. In its application it notes that there is no single, authoritative medical body that oversees the international medical community, but that its own service and 860,000 registered members make it a significant part of the international medical community. It is a German company. As noted above, its application has been '''withdrawn'''.<ref>[http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/DocCheck DocCheck, De.Wikipedia.org]</ref>

[[DocCheck AG]] defined the community as falling into 6 groups: Medical, Scientific-Technical, Nursing/Assisting, Pharmacy, Collegiate, and Business/Publishing. DocCheck is known for its DocCheck.com site, which is the largest community of healthcare professionals in Europe. In its application it notes that there is no single, authoritative medical body that oversees the international medical community, but that its own service and 860,000 registered members make it a significant part of the international medical community. It is a German company. As noted above, its application has been '''withdrawn'''.<ref>[http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/DocCheck DocCheck, De.Wikipedia.org]</ref>

11. <big>'''[[.mls]]'''</big>, there are a total of 3 applications for [[.mls]], a TLD aimed at the real estate agency. "MLS" is an acronym for multiple listing service, which is a widely used real estate database in North America. There are 3 applications, but only 2 applicants, as the Canadian Real Estate Association applied as a [[Community TLD|community priority]] applicant and as a standard gTLD applicant. This is a means of ensuring that the Canadian Real Estate Association is still in a place to be delegated the TLD, even if it is not accepted as a community TLD.

10. <big>'''[[.mls]]'''</big>, there are a total of 3 applications for [[.mls]], a TLD aimed at the real estate agency. "MLS" is an acronym for multiple listing service, which is a widely used real estate database in North America. There are 3 applications, but only 2 applicants, as the Canadian Real Estate Association applied as a [[Community TLD|community priority]] applicant and as a standard gTLD applicant. This is a means of ensuring that the Canadian Real Estate Association is still in a place to be delegated the TLD, even if it is not accepted as a community TLD.

While [[.mls]] has been applied for by the Canadian Association, it has already reached a deal to allow partners in America, the MLS Domains Association, to verify and sell its domains in the USA.<ref>[http://www.inman.com/profile/innovator/canadian-real-estate-associationmls-domains-association Canadian Real Estate Association, Inman.com]</ref>  Their registration policies state: "Only members of CREA and its Foreign Affiliates will be permitted to register .MLS websites.  The .MLS TLD will initially be made available to CREA’s Board members and Foreign Affiliate members.  After undertaking any required assessments, CREA may enter into a second phase where the TLD would be made available to broker and salespeople members of CREA.  Boards using the .MLS TLD will be required to use their corporate name, or an acronym of their corporate name, as the second level domain.  Foreign Affiliate members will be required to include geographical modifiers in their second level domains on the .MLS TLD or clearly indicate the geographical area served by their system on any site page.  For example, the Durham MLS would not be able to simply register Durham.mls, as this domain could be confusing with Durham, Ontario.  The Durham MLS would be required to include a geographical modifier, like DurhamNorthCarolina.mls, or they would have to display something like a map of North Carolina on their home page."<ref>gTLD Application 1-1888-47714</ref>

While [[.mls]] has been applied for by the Canadian Association, it has already reached a deal to allow partners in America, the MLS Domains Association, to verify and sell its domains in the USA.<ref>[http://www.inman.com/profile/innovator/canadian-real-estate-associationmls-domains-association Canadian Real Estate Association, Inman.com]</ref>  Their registration policies state: "Only members of CREA and its Foreign Affiliates will be permitted to register .MLS websites.  The .MLS TLD will initially be made available to CREA’s Board members and Foreign Affiliate members.  After undertaking any required assessments, CREA may enter into a second phase where the TLD would be made available to broker and salespeople members of CREA.  Boards using the .MLS TLD will be required to use their corporate name, or an acronym of their corporate name, as the second level domain.  Foreign Affiliate members will be required to include geographical modifiers in their second level domains on the .MLS TLD or clearly indicate the geographical area served by their system on any site page.  For example, the Durham MLS would not be able to simply register Durham.mls, as this domain could be confusing with Durham, Ontario.  The Durham MLS would be required to include a geographical modifier, like DurhamNorthCarolina.mls, or they would have to display something like a map of North Carolina on their home page."<ref>gTLD Application 1-1888-47714</ref>

12. <big>'''[[.music]]'''</big>, there are 8 applications for [[.music]], including 2 [[community TLD|community priority application]], [[DotMusic|DotMusic / CGR E-Commerce Ltd]] and [[Far Further|.music LLC]] (Far Further).

11. <big>'''[[.music]]'''</big>, there are 8 applications for [[.music]], including 2 [[community TLD|community priority application]], [[DotMusic|DotMusic / CGR E-Commerce Ltd]] and [[Far Further|.music LLC]] (Far Further).

The dot Music initiative ([[DotMusic|DotMusic / CGR E-Commerce Ltd]]) was started by [[Constantine Roussos]] in 2005. He launched the dotMusic (music.us) website dedicated to gathering support via a petition to [[ICANN]] to approve the .music TLD for the global music industry. His initiative was supported by members of the music industry including bands, musicians, companies, professionals and many others. Based on the dotMusic website, Roussos' initiative gathered more than 1.5 million signatures for the petition.<ref>[http://www.linkedin.com/in/constantineroussos Constantine Roussos Linkedin Profile]</ref> <ref>[http://music.us/ music.us]</ref> Organizations it counts among its supporters include the International Federation of Arts Councils & Culture Agencies (IFACCA).<ref>Application 1-1115-14110</ref>

The dot Music initiative ([[DotMusic|DotMusic / CGR E-Commerce Ltd]]) was started by [[Constantine Roussos]] in 2005. He launched the dotMusic (music.us) website dedicated to gathering support via a petition to [[ICANN]] to approve the .music TLD for the global music industry. His initiative was supported by members of the music industry including bands, musicians, companies, professionals and many others. Based on the dotMusic website, Roussos' initiative gathered more than 1.5 million signatures for the petition.<ref>[http://www.linkedin.com/in/constantineroussos Constantine Roussos Linkedin Profile]</ref> <ref>[http://music.us/ music.us]</ref> Organizations it counts among its supporters include the International Federation of Arts Councils & Culture Agencies (IFACCA).<ref>Application 1-1115-14110</ref>

13. <big>'''[[.radio]]'''</big>, there are 4 applicants for the [[.radio]] TLD, including one community priority applicant, the [[European Broadcasting Union]] (EBU). The EBU is the largest international association of national broadcasters, and it counts the World Broadcasting Unions (WBU), the Association Mondiale des Radiodiffuseurs Communautaires (AMARC) among its supporters. It intends to support local and national radio programs, online radios and podcasts that maintain consistent programming, and amateur radio broadcasters. Membership validation will depend on in what way the applicant participates and has been registered within the broadcasting community.<ref>Application 1-1083-39123</ref>

12. <big>'''[[.radio]]'''</big>, there are 4 applicants for the [[.radio]] TLD, including one community priority applicant, the [[European Broadcasting Union]] (EBU). The EBU is the largest international association of national broadcasters, and it counts the World Broadcasting Unions (WBU), the Association Mondiale des Radiodiffuseurs Communautaires (AMARC) among its supporters. It intends to support local and national radio programs, online radios and podcasts that maintain consistent programming, and amateur radio broadcasters. Membership validation will depend on in what way the applicant participates and has been registered within the broadcasting community.<ref>Application 1-1083-39123</ref>

During [[ICANN 44]] in Prague, the [[European Broadcasting Union]] requested permission to become a recognized observer in [[ICANN]]'s [[GAC]]. This move raised questions of conflicts of interest, given that [[GAC]] advice is to be strongly considered by the [[ICANN Board]] during application proceedings.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/9640-radio-gtld-applicant-joins-the-gac Radio gTLD Applicant Joins the GAC, DomainIncite.com]</ref> Fellow .radio applicant, [[BRS Media]], sent a letter to a chair of the [[GAC]], [[Heather Dryden]], complaining that granting the EBU observer status would cause a conflict of interests, and requesting that the EBU withdraw its GAC application immediately in order to recuse itself from all new gTLD discussions.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/9732-radio-applicant-slams-gac-conflict-of-interest Radio Applicant Slams GAC Conflict of Interest, DomainIncite.com]</ref> The EBU went on to be accepted into the GAC.<ref>[http://radioforward.com/ebugac/ EBUGAC.RadioForward.com]</ref>

During [[ICANN 44]] in Prague, the [[European Broadcasting Union]] requested permission to become a recognized observer in [[ICANN]]'s [[GAC]]. This move raised questions of conflicts of interest, given that [[GAC]] advice is to be strongly considered by the [[ICANN Board]] during application proceedings.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/9640-radio-gtld-applicant-joins-the-gac Radio gTLD Applicant Joins the GAC, DomainIncite.com]</ref> Fellow .radio applicant, [[BRS Media]], sent a letter to a chair of the [[GAC]], [[Heather Dryden]], complaining that granting the EBU observer status would cause a conflict of interests, and requesting that the EBU withdraw its GAC application immediately in order to recuse itself from all new gTLD discussions.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/9732-radio-applicant-slams-gac-conflict-of-interest Radio Applicant Slams GAC Conflict of Interest, DomainIncite.com]</ref> The EBU went on to be accepted into the GAC.<ref>[http://radioforward.com/ebugac/ EBUGAC.RadioForward.com]</ref>

14. <big>'''[[.shop]]'''</big>, there are 9 applications for [[.shop]] from 8 applicants. One community priority applicant, [[GMO Registry]], also submitted a generic application in order to still have a chance at the TLD should they not be awarded the community designation. The other community applicant, [[Commercial Connect LLC]], submitted only the one community application.

13. <big>'''[[.shop]]'''</big>, there are 9 applications for [[.shop]] from 8 applicants. One community priority applicant, [[GMO Registry]], also submitted a generic application in order to still have a chance at the TLD should they not be awarded the community designation. The other community applicant, [[Commercial Connect LLC]], submitted only the one community application.

The application from [[Commercial Connect LLC]] defines its community as e-Commerce operators that run "B2C site[s] that utilize credit card processing requiring them to abide by PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards) to operate." The company notes that "We are the original applicant for .SHOP from the 2000 round.  While there were other applicants in the initial rounds, Commercial Connect was the only one that made it through the entire qualification process.  When delegation of .SHOP was put off until the ʺnextʺ round, CC has been working with the above community to establish its relationship and representation in that community. Initially, since there was no clear community representation, we worked on establishing some form of a member trade association.  The result was the creation of ECWR.net (eCommerce World Retailers).  This was formed in March, 2004 and clearly predates  the 2007 requirement in the Applicant Guidebook.  We currently have in excess of 1,000 members representing a substantial amount of eCommerce (these members represent an equilivant in excess of $866 trillion in annual sales)."<ref>Application 1-1830-1672</ref>

The application from [[Commercial Connect LLC]] defines its community as e-Commerce operators that run "B2C site[s] that utilize credit card processing requiring them to abide by PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards) to operate." The company notes that "We are the original applicant for .SHOP from the 2000 round.  While there were other applicants in the initial rounds, Commercial Connect was the only one that made it through the entire qualification process.  When delegation of .SHOP was put off until the ʺnextʺ round, CC has been working with the above community to establish its relationship and representation in that community. Initially, since there was no clear community representation, we worked on establishing some form of a member trade association.  The result was the creation of ECWR.net (eCommerce World Retailers).  This was formed in March, 2004 and clearly predates  the 2007 requirement in the Applicant Guidebook.  We currently have in excess of 1,000 members representing a substantial amount of eCommerce (these members represent an equilivant in excess of $866 trillion in annual sales)."<ref>Application 1-1830-1672</ref>

15. <big>'''[[.spa]]'''</big>, there are 3 applications for the [[.spa]] TLD, including 1 community priority application from [[Asia Spa and Wellness Promotion Council Limited]] (ASWPC). It is "connected with over 400 licensed spas across Asia and over 2000 spa professionals participating in and attending its events." While the organization is focused on Asia, they intend to operate the TLD as an open, international community space for all members of the spa community, which includes Spa operators, professionals and practitioners, Spa associations and their members, and spa products and services manufacturers and distributors. The ASWPC will create an International Registry board to oversee the registration policies for the TLD.<ref>Application 1-1309-81322</ref>

14. <big>'''[[.spa]]'''</big>, there are 3 applications for the [[.spa]] TLD, including 1 community priority application from [[Asia Spa and Wellness Promotion Council Limited]] (ASWPC). It is "connected with over 400 licensed spas across Asia and over 2000 spa professionals participating in and attending its events." While the organization is focused on Asia, they intend to operate the TLD as an open, international community space for all members of the spa community, which includes Spa operators, professionals and practitioners, Spa associations and their members, and spa products and services manufacturers and distributors. The ASWPC will create an International Registry board to oversee the registration policies for the TLD.<ref>Application 1-1309-81322</ref>

16. <big>'''[[.sport]]'''</big>, there are 2 applicants for [[.sport]], including one community application; there is also a non-community application for the plural version, [[.sports]]. The community application comes from [[Sport Accord]], and it has engaged the International Sports Federations and the International Olympic Committee to comprise a Policy Advisory Board (PAB). "[R]egistrants in .sport must be recognized performers, organizers, promoters or supporters of federated Sport, or belong to categories of registrants recognized by the .sport Policy Advisory Board (PAB)." The Olympic Committee has previously been involved in discussions in [[ICANN] regarding universal protections for its trademarks across all new gTLDs.

15. <big>'''[[.sport]]'''</big>, there are 2 applicants for [[.sport]], including one community application; there is also a non-community application for the plural version, [[.sports]]. The community application comes from [[Sport Accord]], and it has engaged the International Sports Federations and the International Olympic Committee to comprise a Policy Advisory Board (PAB). "[R]egistrants in .sport must be recognized performers, organizers, promoters or supporters of federated Sport, or belong to categories of registrants recognized by the .sport Policy Advisory Board (PAB)." The Olympic Committee has previously been involved in discussions in [[ICANN] regarding universal protections for its trademarks across all new gTLDs.

17. <big>'''[[.taxi]]'''</big>, There are 3 applicants for [[.taxi]], including a community priority application submitted by [[Taxi Pay GmbH]]. Its primary supporters include taxi organizations and associations in Germany and Austria. It identifies four type of taxi community members: The core industry of taxi drivers and offices; the related industries involved in hardware and software suppliers, automotive repair shops, and insurance companies; subordinate organizations affiliated with government supervision and policy development; and major institutions and locations that rely heavily on taxi services in and around their venue(s).  

16. <big>'''[[.taxi]]'''</big>, There are 3 applicants for [[.taxi]], including a community priority application submitted by [[Taxi Pay GmbH]]. Its primary supporters include taxi organizations and associations in Germany and Austria. It identifies four type of taxi community members: The core industry of taxi drivers and offices; the related industries involved in hardware and software suppliers, automotive repair shops, and insurance companies; subordinate organizations affiliated with government supervision and policy development; and major institutions and locations that rely heavily on taxi services in and around their venue(s).  

"First, an applicant for a .taxi second level domain has to submit proof of his or her affiliation with the taxi industry to the desired registrar. This process does not involve any formalities on the side of TaxiPay GmbH except an official document, such as a taxi license or a commensurate certificate of registration stating the purpose of the company and aligning it with a strong affiliation to the taxi community."<ref>Application 1-1025-18840</ref>

"First, an applicant for a .taxi second level domain has to submit proof of his or her affiliation with the taxi industry to the desired registrar. This process does not involve any formalities on the side of TaxiPay GmbH except an official document, such as a taxi license or a commensurate certificate of registration stating the purpose of the company and aligning it with a strong affiliation to the taxi community."<ref>Application 1-1025-18840</ref>

18. <big>'''[[.tennis]]'''</big>, There are 4 applicants for [[.tennis]], including one community applicant, [[Tennis Australia Ltd]], which is the governing body for Tennis in Australia. "Only individuals and entities belonging to the Tennis Australia community will be eligible to register  a domain name within the .tennis TLD, as strict eligibility criteria will be introduced...Tennis Australia provides benefits to 2,176 affiliated tennis clubs and their over 180,000 tennis player members throughout Australia."

17. <big>'''[[.tennis]]'''</big>, There are 4 applicants for [[.tennis]], including one community applicant, [[Tennis Australia Ltd]], which is the governing body for Tennis in Australia. "Only individuals and entities belonging to the Tennis Australia community will be eligible to register  a domain name within the .tennis TLD, as strict eligibility criteria will be introduced...Tennis Australia provides benefits to 2,176 affiliated tennis clubs and their over 180,000 tennis player members throughout Australia."

Current language in its application does not seem to leave room for any registration of the [[.tennis]] TLD outside of Australia.<ref>Application 1-1723-69677</ref>

Current language in its application does not seem to leave room for any registration of the [[.tennis]] TLD outside of Australia.<ref>Application 1-1723-69677</ref>

19. <big>'''[[.webs]]'''</big>, two applications for [[.webs]] were submitted by the same applicant, [[Vistaprint Limited]]. They define their community as users of their online portal, webs.com: "The ‘WEBS’ community was created in late 2005 by Freewebs, now called Webs, Inc. Webs, Inc. presently is a subsidiary of the Applicant... Since 2006, the Applicant started by giving its users the option to publish their myWebs profile as a page on their website, making it accessible and searchable to all Freewebs – and later on Webs – visitors. The Applicant invested in creating the tools necessary for its members to simply create their Web presence and share their passions with the world. Since its inception, the name of the community was ‘WEBS’. This is shown by the mention of ‘myWebs’ and the mention of the name ‘Webs’ as such to refer to the blog that was used by the community to communicate with each other to share Webs experiences... In 2008 this resulted in the rebranding of the company name from Freewebs into Webs. The community only became stronger and the aim was to have visitors to become active participants. The Applicant, through the Webs platform lets site owners create community-driven sites that visitors can join as members. By giving site members the ability to comment on photos, post to a blog, add to a site calendar, and more, a site becomes more of a living, breathing entity and a reflection of the Webs community."

18. <big>'''[[.webs]]'''</big>, two applications for [[.webs]] were submitted by the same applicant, [[Vistaprint Limited]]. They define their community as users of their online portal, webs.com: "The ‘WEBS’ community was created in late 2005 by Freewebs, now called Webs, Inc. Webs, Inc. presently is a subsidiary of the Applicant... Since 2006, the Applicant started by giving its users the option to publish their myWebs profile as a page on their website, making it accessible and searchable to all Freewebs – and later on Webs – visitors. The Applicant invested in creating the tools necessary for its members to simply create their Web presence and share their passions with the world. Since its inception, the name of the community was ‘WEBS’. This is shown by the mention of ‘myWebs’ and the mention of the name ‘Webs’ as such to refer to the blog that was used by the community to communicate with each other to share Webs experiences... In 2008 this resulted in the rebranding of the company name from Freewebs into Webs. The community only became stronger and the aim was to have visitors to become active participants. The Applicant, through the Webs platform lets site owners create community-driven sites that visitors can join as members. By giving site members the ability to comment on photos, post to a blog, add to a site calendar, and more, a site becomes more of a living, breathing entity and a reflection of the Webs community."

To begin with the TLD will be a [[Single Registrant TLD]], meaning that the applicant will use it for their own commercial and internal profits and not offer registration to the wider community. "At a later stage, in addition to the Applicant and⁄or its subsidiaries, members of the Webs community will possibly be entitled to register domain names in .WEBS. That is to say, one of the main eligibility criteria will be that the interested party wishing to register a domain name in the .WEBS TLD is either a member of the Applicant or has a sufficiently close link to the Webs community."<ref>Application 1-1033-22687</ref>

To begin with the TLD will be a [[Single Registrant TLD]], meaning that the applicant will use it for their own commercial and internal profits and not offer registration to the wider community. "At a later stage, in addition to the Applicant and⁄or its subsidiaries, members of the Webs community will possibly be entitled to register domain names in .WEBS. That is to say, one of the main eligibility criteria will be that the interested party wishing to register a domain name in the .WEBS TLD is either a member of the Applicant or has a sufficiently close link to the Webs community."<ref>Application 1-1033-22687</ref>

26. <big>'''[[.quebec]]'''</big>, The applicant is [[PointQuébec Inc]], which has been endorsed by the government of Québec and other cultural, technical, and economic instituions in the city. It has received "substantial financial support from the Québec government", and is a not-for profit organization. The organization will verify legitimate registations via statements of intent through a post-verification registration system.<ref>Application 1-1663-45909. Retrieved 23 November 2012</ref>

26. <big>'''[[.quebec]]'''</big>, The applicant is [[PointQuébec Inc]], which has been endorsed by the government of Québec and other cultural, technical, and economic instituions in the city. It has received "substantial financial support from the Québec government", and is a not-for profit organization. The organization will verify legitimate registations via statements of intent through a post-verification registration system.<ref>Application 1-1663-45909. Retrieved 23 November 2012</ref>

 

27. <big>'''[[.scot]]'''</big>, The applicant is [[Dot Scot Registry Limited]]. The international community of Scots is defined through: "birth or residence as Scottish; by ancestry as of Scots origin;businesses located in Scotland or registered in Scotland; organisations and their memberships whose stated remit is to celebrate or further the heritage, arts, music, languages, sports and culture of Scotland."

27. <big>'''[[.saarland]]'''</big>, “Saarland” is the name of a federal state within Germany. The aim of the .saarland TLD is to create a virtual home for all people identifying with Saarland. The TLD is designed to appeal all Saarland people, communities, organizations, and companies which want to promote the different cultural or economic aspects of the Saarland on the Internet or which want to address their online communications to that community.

 

 

 

28. <big>'''[[.scot]]'''</big>, The applicant is [[Dot Scot Registry Limited]]. The international community of Scots is defined through: "birth or residence as Scottish; by ancestry as of Scots origin;businesses located in Scotland or registered in Scotland; organisations and their memberships whose stated remit is to celebrate or further the heritage, arts, music, languages, sports and culture of Scotland."

The applicant has the support of the UK and Scottish governments. Registration will be verified by a statement of intent and maintained through good-faith registration.<ref>Application 1-1741-29613. Retrieved 23 November 2012</ref>

The applicant has the support of the UK and Scottish governments. Registration will be verified by a statement of intent and maintained through good-faith registration.<ref>Application 1-1741-29613. Retrieved 23 November 2012</ref>

29. <big>'''[[.tirol]]'''</big>, The applicant is [[punkt Tirol GmbH]].

28. <big>'''[[.tirol]]'''</big>, The applicant is [[punkt Tirol GmbH]].

"Exclusively eligible to register a domain name under the top-level domain .TIROL is any natural person, legal person, organization or association of persons, if they can demonstrate an economic, cultural, touristical, historical, social or any other connection to the Austrian Federal State of Tirol...The applicant Punkt Tirol GmbH has entered into an agreement with the Federal State of Tirol to operate .TIROL under license by the state." Verification methods do not seem to be explicitly stated within the application.<ref>Application 1-1703-3426. Retrieved 23 November 2012</ref>

"Exclusively eligible to register a domain name under the top-level domain .TIROL is any natural person, legal person, organization or association of persons, if they can demonstrate an economic, cultural, touristical, historical, social or any other connection to the Austrian Federal State of Tirol...The applicant Punkt Tirol GmbH has entered into an agreement with the Federal State of Tirol to operate .TIROL under license by the state." Verification methods do not seem to be explicitly stated within the application.<ref>Application 1-1703-3426. Retrieved 23 November 2012</ref>

30. <big>'''[[.wien]]'''</big>, The applicant is [[punkt.wien GmbH]], which has the requisite letter of support from the local government. "Exclusively eligible to register a domain name under the top-level domain .WIEN is any natural person, legal person, organization or association of persons, if they can demonstrate that they have an economic, cultural, touristical, historical, social or any other connection to the Austrian capital Wien (Vienna)." Registration will involved implicitly signing an agreement that affirms a legitimate connection to the city of Vienna (Wien) and intention to use the name in good-faith.<ref>Application 1-1030-79531 Retrieved 23 November 2012</ref>

29. <big>'''[[.wien]]'''</big>, The applicant is [[punkt.wien GmbH]], which has the requisite letter of support from the local government. "Exclusively eligible to register a domain name under the top-level domain .WIEN is any natural person, legal person, organization or association of persons, if they can demonstrate that they have an economic, cultural, touristical, historical, social or any other connection to the Austrian capital Wien (Vienna)." Registration will involved implicitly signing an agreement that affirms a legitimate connection to the city of Vienna (Wien) and intention to use the name in good-faith.<ref>Application 1-1030-79531 Retrieved 23 November 2012</ref>

==References==

==References==

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