Changes

| twitter        = ICANN

| twitter        = ICANN

| keypeople      = [[Göran Marby]], CEO and President<br>

| keypeople      = [[Göran Marby]], CEO and President<br>

[[Cherine Chalaby]], Chair of the Board<br>

[[Tripti Sinha]], Chair of the Board<br>

[[Jeff Moss]] VP and Chief Security Officer <br>

[[John Crain]] VP and Chief Technology Officer <br>

}}

}}

'''ICANN''', or the '''Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers''', is a global multi-stakeholder organization that was created by the U.S. government and its [[DOC|Department of Commerce]].<ref name="icann-mou">[http://www.icann.org/en/general/icann-mou-25nov98.htm ICANN DOC MoU Memorandum of Understanding, Depart. of Commerce and ICANN]. ICANN. Published 1999 December 31.</ref> It coordinates the Internet [[DNS]], [[IP]] addresses, and [[ASN|autonomous system numbers]] and involves the continued management of these evolving systems and the protocols that underlie them.

'''ICANN''', or the '''Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers''', is a global multi-stakeholder organization that was created by the U.S. government and its [[DOC|Department of Commerce]].<ref name="icann-mou">[http://www.icann.org/en/general/icann-mou-25nov98.htm ICANN DOC MoU Memorandum of Understanding, Depart. of Commerce and ICANN]. ICANN. Published 1999 December 31.</ref> It coordinates the Internet [[DNS]], [[IP]] addresses, and [[ASN|autonomous system numbers]] and involves the continued management of these evolving systems and the protocols that underlie them.

====Second Round of Applications====

====Second Round of Applications====

On February 7, 2012, the [[ICANN Board]] approved the implementation of a second round and application window for the new gTLD program in response to the request of the global Internet community, particularly the members of [[CADNA]]. The board delegated the [[ICANN CEO]] to work with the Internet community to develop a work plan and the needed prerequisites to open the second round of application for new gTLDs.<ref>[http://www.icann.org/en/groups/board/documents/resolutions-07feb12-en.htm#4 Approved Board Resolutions | Special Meeting of the ICANN Board]. ICANN. Published 2012 February 7.</ref>  

On February 7, 2012, the [[ICANN Board]] approved the implementation of a second round and application window for the new gTLD program in response to the request of the global Internet community, particularly the members of [[CADNA]]. The board delegated the [[ICANN CEO]] to work with the Internet community to develop a work plan and the needed prerequisites to open the second round of applications for new gTLDs.<ref>[http://www.icann.org/en/groups/board/documents/resolutions-07feb12-en.htm#4 Approved Board Resolutions | Special Meeting of the ICANN Board]. ICANN. Published 2012 February 7.</ref>  

====Physical Expansion====

====Physical Expansion====

In September 2011, the [[ICANN Board]] approved resolutions to secure new office space for the organization. It is possible they will negotiate for more space at their current location, or that they find a new space at their headquarters of Marina Del Rey. It was also decided to begin permanently leasing its office space in Brussels instead of continuing to rent their space month-to-month. Much of its expansion is related to the new [[gTLD]] program. At the time of the board's decision, ICANN staff numbered 124, with 21 open positions to be filled. The 2012 budget includes $2.1 million for office space acquisition and maintenance for its offices in Marina Del Rey, Brussels, Sydney, Paolo Alto, and Washington D.C..<ref>[http://domainincite.com/as-new-gtlds-loom-icann-expands/ New gTLDs expand ICANN] Domain Incite. Published 2011 September 21.</ref> The Sydney office went on to be closed in 2012.

In September 2011, the [[ICANN Board]] approved resolutions to secure new office space for the organization. It is possible they will negotiate for more space at their current location, or that they find a new space at their headquarters of Marina Del Rey. It was also decided to begin permanently leasing its office space in Brussels instead of continuing to rent its space month-to-month. Much of its expansion is related to the new [[gTLD]] program. At the time of the board's decision, ICANN staff numbered 124, with 21 open positions to be filled. The 2012 budget includes $2.1 million for office space acquisition and maintenance for its offices in Marina Del Rey, Brussels, Sydney, Paolo Alto, and Washington D.C..<ref>[http://domainincite.com/as-new-gtlds-loom-icann-expands/ New gTLDs expand ICANN] Domain Incite. Published 2011 September 21.</ref> The Sydney office went on to be closed in 2012.

In February 2013, former CEO Fadi Chehadé announced that ICANN's office in L.A. would diminish in importance while two new "hubs" would be created to fill the gap and provide new means of outreach to ICANN's international constituents. The hubs are to be located in Singapore and Istanbul, and are to act with far more authority and purpose than a stand-alone office; it is clear that many senior staff from the L.A. office will be asked to move, and the CEO himself said he will be based in Singapore once that office is up and running.<ref>[http://nigel.je/2013/02/icann-la-to-be-broken-up-begging-letters-to-stop/ ICANN LA To be Broken Up Begging Letters to Stop, Nigel.je] Retrieved 25 Feb 2012</ref><ref>[http://domainincite.com/11967-icann-to-set-up-hubs-in-singapore-and-istanbul ICANN to Set up Hubs in Singapore and Istanbul, DomainIncite.com] Retrieved 25 Feb 2013</ref> The news was announced during Mr. Chehadé's first comprehensive tour of Asia, with trips to South Korea, China, Japan, and Singapore. He noted that ICANN needed to apologize to Asia, as it had long not been given the attention it deserved within the organization.<ref>[http://www.zdnet.com/sg/icann-ceo-we-owe-asia-a-big-apology-7000011762/ ICANN CEO We Owe Asia a Big Apology, ZDnet.com] Retrieved 25 Feb 2013</ref>

In February 2013, former CEO Fadi Chehadé announced that ICANN's office in L.A. would diminish in importance while two new "hubs" would be created to fill the gap and provide new means of outreach to ICANN's international constituents. The hubs are to be located in Singapore and Istanbul, and are to act with far more authority and purpose than a stand-alone office; it is clear that many senior staff from the L.A. office will be asked to move, and the CEO himself said he will be based in Singapore once that office is up and running.<ref>[http://nigel.je/2013/02/icann-la-to-be-broken-up-begging-letters-to-stop/ ICANN LA To be Broken Up Begging Letters to Stop, Nigel.je] Retrieved 25 Feb 2012</ref><ref>[http://domainincite.com/11967-icann-to-set-up-hubs-in-singapore-and-istanbul ICANN to Set up Hubs in Singapore and Istanbul, DomainIncite.com] Retrieved 25 Feb 2013</ref> The news was announced during Mr. Chehadé's first comprehensive tour of Asia, with trips to South Korea, China, Japan, and Singapore. He noted that ICANN needed to apologize to Asia, as it had long not been given the attention it deserved within the organization.<ref>[http://www.zdnet.com/sg/icann-ceo-we-owe-asia-a-big-apology-7000011762/ ICANN CEO We Owe Asia a Big Apology, ZDnet.com] Retrieved 25 Feb 2013</ref>

====A New Approach to Africa====

====A New Approach to Africa====

On August 10, 2012, ICANN, with the support of [[AfriNIC]], announced an initiative to increase African participation in influence within ICANN. The initiative is the result of a meeting between [[Steve Crocker]], Chairman of ICANN's Board of Directors, ICANN's CEO-Designate [[Fadi Chehadé]], and Interim CEO [[Akram Atallah]], with African community members at [[ICANN 44]] in Prague, Czech Republic. Their goal is to develop a framework for ICANN's Africa strategy to be announced at [[ICANN 45]] in Toronto, Canada. A [[WG|working group]] was established, led by [[Nii Quaynor]] of Ghana, to contribute to the development of the strategy. The group is also to work with [[Tarek Kamel]], Head of Governmental Affairs.<ref>[http://www.icann.org/en/news/announcements/announcement-10aug12-en.htm A New Approach to Africa]. ICANN. Published 2012 August 10.</ref> The initiative has received strong support from African Internet stakeholders, including former Board Member [[Katim Touray]]. In March 2013, [[Fadi Chehadé]], expressed his desire to raise the number of registrars in Africa from 5 to 25, via personal and business relations with the banking and insurance sectors that would allow the African companies to more easily meet some form of tailored ICANN accreditation. His hope is to accomplish this in just a few months, with something implemented around ICANN 47 in Durban, in July 2013<ref>[http://domainincite.com/12181-chehade-commits-to-grow-the-number-of-domain-registrars-in-africa Chehade Commits to Grow The Number of Number of Domain Registrars in Africa, DomainIncite.com] Retrieved 8 Mar 2013</ref>

On August 10, 2012, ICANN, with the support of [[AfriNIC]], announced an initiative to increase African participation in influence within ICANN. The initiative is the result of a meeting between [[Steve Crocker]], Chairman of ICANN's Board of Directors, ICANN's CEO-Designate [[Fadi Chehadé]], and Interim CEO [[Akram Atallah]], with African community members at [[ICANN 44]] in Prague, Czech Republic. Their goal is to develop a framework for ICANN's Africa strategy to be announced at [[ICANN 45]] in Toronto, Canada. A [[WG|working group]] was established, led by [[Nii Quaynor]] of Ghana, to contribute to the development of the strategy. The group is also to work with [[Tarek Kamel]], Head of Governmental Affairs.<ref>[http://www.icann.org/en/news/announcements/announcement-10aug12-en.htm A New Approach to Africa]. ICANN. Published 2012 August 10.</ref> The initiative has received strong support from African Internet stakeholders, including former Board Member [[Katim Touray]]. In March 2013, [[Fadi Chehadé]], expressed his desire to raise the number of registrars in Africa from 5 to 25, via personal and business relations with the banking and insurance sectors that would allow the African companies to more easily meet some form of tailored ICANN accreditation. His hope is to accomplish this in just a few months, with something implemented around ICANN 47 in Durban, in July 2013<ref>[http://domainincite.com/12181-chehade-commits-to-grow-the-number-of-domain-registrars-in-africa Chehade Commits to Grow The Number of Domain Registrars in Africa, DomainIncite.com] Retrieved 8 Mar 2013</ref>

====UDRP====

====UDRP====

ICANN adopted a new set of by-laws, which were first laid out by the aforementioned Evolution and Reform Committee, before being revised in response to Public Forums. Those by-laws can be read [http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/minutes-appa-31oct02.htm here]. The by-laws more clearly defined ICANN's mission and core values and improved apparatuses for review and greater transparency. The [[Reconsideration Committee]], [[IRP|Independent Review Panel]], and the [[Ombudsman]] all were strengthened as a part of this move towards a more transparent organization that is able to defend its actions and decisions.<ref>[http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/minutes-appa-31oct02.htm Appendix A to Minutes ICANN Board Meeting in Shanghai]. ICANN. Published 2002 October 31.</ref>

ICANN adopted a new set of by-laws, which were first laid out by the aforementioned Evolution and Reform Committee, before being revised in response to Public Forums. Those by-laws can be read [http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/minutes-appa-31oct02.htm here]. The by-laws more clearly defined ICANN's mission and core values and improved apparatuses for review and greater transparency. The [[Reconsideration Committee]], [[IRP|Independent Review Panel]], and the [[Ombudsman]] all were strengthened as a part of this move towards a more transparent organization that is able to defend its actions and decisions.<ref>[http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/minutes-appa-31oct02.htm Appendix A to Minutes ICANN Board Meeting in Shanghai]. ICANN. Published 2002 October 31.</ref>

==Debates over ICANN Organization==

==ICANN Organizational Issues==

: ''See [[ICANN Bodies]] for a list of the key players in ICANN's [[Multistakeholder Model]].''

:''See [[ICANN Bodies]] for a list of the key players in ICANN's [[Multistakeholder Model]].''

 

It is central to ICANN's mission that the organization is structured in a way that welcomes a variety of voices and seeks to represent diverse constituencies with continued interest in the Internet's development, from [[Registry|registries]], to [[:Category:Companies|corporations]], to individual Internet users. In relation to ICANN's structural development, there have been critics who have taken issue with its closed-door sessions, the role of the [[DOC|U.S. Department of Commerce]], and other structural and procedural rules.<ref>[http://sunburn.stanford.edu/~eroberts/courses/cs181/projects/the-domain-name-system/icannorg.html ICANN Organizational Structure]. Stanford University.</ref> ICANN has been described as being in a contentious oversight situation, with some countries calling for all U.S. influence to be removed from the organization by subordinating it to the U.N.'s jurisdiction, or suggesting similar solutions.<ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/02/28/AR2011022803719.html?hpid=topnews Obama administration joins critics of U.S. nonprofit group that oversees Internet]. The Washington Post. Published 2011 March 1.</ref> ICANN's structure and process are outlined in the [[ICANN Bylaws]].

It is central to ICANN's mission that the organization is structured in a way that welcomes a variety of voices and seeks to represent diverse constituencies with continued interest in the Internet's development, from [[Registry|registries]], to [[:Category:Companies|corporations]], to individual Internet users. In relation to ICANN's structural development, there have been critics who have taken issue with its closed-door sessions, the role of the [[DOC|U.S. Department of Commerce]], and other structural and procedural rules.<ref>[http://sunburn.stanford.edu/~eroberts/courses/cs181/projects/the-domain-name-system/icannorg.html ICANN Organizational Structure]. Stanford University.</ref> ICANN has been described as being in a contentious oversight situation, with some countries calling for all U.S. influence to be removed from the organization by subordinating it to the U.N.'s jurisdiction, or suggesting similar solutions.<ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/02/28/AR2011022803719.html?hpid=topnews Obama administration joins critics of U.S. nonprofit group that oversees Internet]. The Washington Post. Published 2011 March 1.</ref> ICANN's structure and process are outlined in the [[ICANN Bylaws]].

===Board of Directors===

===Board of Directors===

: ''Main article: [[ICANN Board]]

: ''Main article: [[ICANN Board]]''

ICANN is governed by a [[ICANN Board|Board of Directors]] made up of 16 voting members (including ICANN's CEO) and four non-voting liaisons.<ref name="bylaws">[http://www.icann.org/en/general/bylaws.htm ICANN Bylaws]. ICANN.</ref> From ICANN's inception to December 2011, being a board member was a voluntary position. At that time, the [[ICANN Board]] responded to mounting pressure regarding conflicts of interest and the notion that compensation would create a more professional and accountable body by awarding themselves a $35,000 annual salary.<ref name="dotnxt">[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/12/13/icann-board-dec-minutes ICANN Board awards itself $35,000, developing countries $138,000, and adds to confusion with secondary timestamp]. dotnxt. Published 2011 December 13.</ref>

ICANN is governed by a [[ICANN Board|Board of Directors]] made up of 16 voting members (including ICANN's CEO) and four non-voting liaisons.<ref name="bylaws">[http://www.icann.org/en/general/bylaws.htm ICANN Bylaws]. ICANN.</ref> From ICANN's inception to December 2011, being a board member was a voluntary position. At that time, the [[ICANN Board]] responded to mounting pressure regarding conflicts of interest and the notion that compensation would create a more professional and accountable body by awarding themselves a $35,000 annual salary.<ref name="dotnxt">[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/12/13/icann-board-dec-minutes ICANN Board awards itself $35,000, developing countries $138,000, and adds to confusion with secondary timestamp]. dotnxt. Published 2011 December 13.</ref>

===Ombudsman===

===Ombudsman===

: ''Main article: [[Ombudsman]]''

: ''Main article: [[Ombudsman]]''

The [[Ombudsman]]'s function is to act as an independent, impartial, and neutral informal dispute resolution officer for the ICANN community for those who want to lodge a complaint about ICANN staff, board, or supporting organizations. The independence of this office has been questioned, as the person in this role is hired and fired by the ICANN Board and reports to the ICANN Chair. The length and indefiniteness of tenure have also debated.  

The [[Ombudsman]] is required to offer independent, impartial, and neutral informal dispute resolution for those who want to lodge a complaint about ICANN staff, board, or supporting organizations. The independence of this office has been called into question, as the person in this role is hired and fired by the ICANN Board and reports to the ICANN Chair. The length of tenure has also been debated.

===GNSO===

===GNSO===

===ccNSO===

===ccNSO===

: ''Main article: [[ccNSO]]''

: ''Main article: [[ccNSO]]''

 

The [[Country Code Names Supporting Organization]] (ccNSO) was created by and for [[ccTLD]] managers, which are the entities that oversee a given nation's own Country Code Top Level Domain.<ref>[http://ccnso.icann.org/about About].</ref> The main issues it faces are a shortage of candidates and a lack of transparency and accountability in its [[PDP]].

The [[Country Code Names Supporting Organization]] (ccNSO) is an advisory body within ICANN created by and for [[ccTLD]] managers, which are the entities that oversee a given nation's own Country Code Top Level Domain. The ccNSO is a consortium of working groups and the ccNSO Council, and it works in conjunction with other supporting organizations and bodies within ICANN. It was founded in 2003. It is a forum for global discussions and debates regarding issues related to ccTLDs.<ref>[http://ccnso.icann.org/about About]. Country Code Names Supporting Organisation.</ref>

===ASO===

===ASO===

: ''Main article: [[ASO]]''

: ''Main article: [[ASO]]''

 

The [[Address Supporting Organization]] (ASO) reviews and develop [[IP|Internet Protocol]] recommendations.<ref>[http://aso.icann.org/ The Address Supporting Organization]</ref> It has been criticized for lacking a single, authoritative description of the process for global numbering policies and a lack of transparency on the difference between the roles of the [[ASO]] and the [[NRO]], which is a non-ICANN body that strongly overlaps with the ASO.

The [[Address Supporting Organization]] (ASO) is one of the supporting organizations that was formed, according to ICANN's bylaws, through community consensus in 1999. The main objective of the ASO is to review and develop [[IP|Internet Protocol]] recommendations, address policy, and advise the [[ICANN Board]].<ref>[http://aso.icann.org/ The Address Supporting Organization]. ICANN.</ref> Its members are appointed by the world's 5 [[RIR|Regional Internet Registries]] (RIRs), which manage and allocate IP addresses in their respective continental regions.<ref>[http://www.apnic.net/about-APNIC About APNIC]. APNIC.</ref><ref>[http://aso.icann.org/people/address-council/address-council-members/ Adress Council Members]. ASO.</ref>

===GAC===

===GAC===

: ''Main article: [[GAC]]

: ''Main article: [[GAC]]

The GAC is an advisory committee to ICANN, created under the ICANN ByLaws. It provides advice to ICANN on public policy aspects of ICANN’s responsibilities with regard to the Internet Domain Name System (DNS). The GAC is not a decision-making body. It advises ICANN on issues that are within ICANN’s scope. GAC advice has a particular status under the ICANN ByLaws. Its advice must be duly taken into account by the ICANN Board, and where the Board proposes actions inconsistent with GAC advice it must give reasons for doing so and attempt to reach a mutually acceptable solution. The GAC appoints a non-voting liaison to the ICANN Board. This is normally the GAC Chair.

The GAC advises the ICANN Board on how governments will react to potential policies. The GAC has come under fire for seemingly allowing the governments they represent a veto power over ICANN decisions.<ref>[https://cdt.org/insights/icann-must-follow-its-own-rules/ ICANN Must follow its own rules. CDT]</ref>

===ALAC===

===ALAC===

: ''Main article: [[ALAC]]

: ''Main article: [[ALAC]]

The At-Large Advisory Committee (ALAC) is one of [[ICANN]]'s [[AC|Advisory Committees]]. The mission of ALAC is to function as an advocate for the interests of individual Internet users.

The At-Large Advisory Committee (ALAC) advocates for the interests of individual Internet users. ALAC was recently criticized for spending too much time on process and administrative issues, and too little on policy advice, which was also considered of low quality. ALAC is also struggling with an uneven distribution of power.<ref>[https://www.icann.org/en/system/files/files/atlarge-review-final-02may17-en.pdf 2017 At-Large Review]</ref>

===SSAC===

===SSAC===

''Main article: [[SSAC]]''

:''Main article: [[SSAC]]''

 

SSAC was originally intended to expand and specialize the role of ICANN, and it received official recognition in 2002.<ref name="accra">[http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/prelim-report-14mar02.htm#EvolutionandReformCommittee ICANN Meeting in Accra Preliminary Report]. ICANN. Published 2002 March 14.</ref> SSAC as a body and its individual members have been criticized for their lack of communication and engagement with other ICANN bodies.<ref>[https://www.icann.org/en/system/files/files/ssac-review-final-17dec18-en.pdf 2018 SSAC Review]</ref>

This committee was originally intended to expand and specialize the role of ICANN, and it received official recognition in 2002.<ref name="accra">[http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/prelim-report-14mar02.htm#EvolutionandReformCommittee ICANN Meeting in Accra Preliminary Report]. ICANN. Published 2002 March 14.</ref>

===RSSAC===

===RSSAC===

''Main article: [[RSSAC]]''

:''Main article: [[RSSAC]]''

==Process==

==Process==

===Meetings===

===Meetings===

: ''Main article: [[ICANN Meetings]]''

: ''Main article: [[ICANN Meetings]]''

ICANN holds meetings three times per year; one of these meetings serves as the organization's annual general meeting, where new board directors take their appointed seats. These meetings are held in a different location each time, with each global region hosting a meeting before the regional cycle is started anew.<ref name="meetings"></ref> The next meeting will be the 61st meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico.<ref>[http://blog.icann.org/2011/02/middle-east-developments-interfere-with-icann-41-jordan-meeting/ Middle East Developments Cause Cancellation of ICANN Jordan Meeting]. ICANN Blog. Published 2011 February 18.</ref> Meetings are designated as A, B, C, and each meeting has a varying length and purpose.

ICANN holds meetings three times per year; one of these meetings serves as the organization's annual general meeting, where new board directors take their appointed seats. These meetings are held in a different location each time, with each global region hosting a meeting before the regional cycle is started anew.<ref name="meetings"></ref> The next meeting will be the 61st meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico.<ref>[http://blog.icann.org/2011/02/middle-east-developments-interfere-with-icann-41-jordan-meeting/ Middle East Developments Cause Cancellation of ICANN Jordan Meeting]. ICANN Blog. Published 2011 February 18.</ref> Meetings are designated as A, B, and C, and each meeting has a varying length and purpose.

===Accountability===

===Accountability===

===Reviews===

===Reviews===

: ''Main article: [[ICANN Reviews]]''

: ''Main article: [[ICANN Reviews]]''

ICANN has mechanisms in place for any individual or entity to solicit a reappraisal of any board decision that affects them. The [[Board Governance Committee]] is in charge of reviewing all reconsideration requests, which are submitted electronically and must be responded to within 30 days. The board's actions are also reviewed by an [[IRP|Independent Review Panel]], which has the power to call attention to discrepancies between the [[ICANN Bylaws|bylaws]] and actions taken by the board, and recommend that the board readdress certain issues. Furthermore, ICANN's structure and operations, including every supporting organization and committee, is also subject to occasional reviews.<ref name="bylaws"></ref>

ICANN has mechanisms in place for any individual or entity to solicit a reappraisal of any board decision that affects them. The [[Board Governance Committee]] is in charge of reviewing all reconsideration requests, which are submitted electronically and must be responded to within 30 days. The board's actions are also reviewed by an [[IRP|Independent Review Panel]], which has the power to call attention to discrepancies between the [[ICANN Bylaws|bylaws]] and actions taken by the board, and recommend that the board readdress certain issues. Furthermore, ICANN's structure and operations, including every supporting organization and committee, are also subject to occasional reviews.<ref name="bylaws"></ref>

==Conflicts of Interest==

==Conflicts of Interest==

ICANN adopted a Conflict of Interest policy in 2012.<ref>I[https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/governance/coi-en CANN Conflict of Interest Policy]. Retrieved 21 Nov 2017. </ref> The policy requires that all Board Members, as well as those in various other positions, disclose any and all potential conflicts of interest to the [[Board Governance Committee]]. They must then abstain from any ICANN activities related to the conflict of interest,<ref>[http://www.icann.org/en/committees/board-governance/coi/ ICANN Conflict of Interest Policy]. ICANN. Published 2012 May 6.</ref> Board members also may not join business with a new gTLD registry until 12 months after the registry's application has been voted on.<ref name="dotnxt" /> Prior to the policy, ICANN did not have a clear position. This notably came to a head in 2011, when a prominent staffer and the Chairman of the Board left ICANN for employment in the industry. Both were involved in developing ICANN's new [[gTLD]] program, and both went on the be employed in new gTLD related ventures.<ref name="revolvingdoor">[http://domainincite.com/calls-to-fix-new-gtld-revolving-door-at-icann/ Calls to Fix Revolving Door]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 June 26.</ref>

ICANN adopted a Conflict of Interest policy in 2012.<ref>I[https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/governance/coi-en CANN Conflict of Interest Policy]. Retrieved 21 Nov 2017. </ref> The policy requires that all Board Members, as well as those in various other positions, disclose any and all potential conflicts of interest to the [[Board Governance Committee]]. They must then abstain from any ICANN activities related to the conflict of interest,<ref>[http://www.icann.org/en/committees/board-governance/coi/ ICANN Conflict of Interest Policy]. ICANN. Published 2012 May 6.</ref> Board members also may not join a business with a new gTLD registry until 12 months after the registry's application has been voted on.<ref name="dotnxt" /> Prior to the policy, ICANN did not have a clear position. This notably came to a head in 2011, when a prominent staffer and the Chairman of the Board left ICANN for employment in the industry. Both were involved in developing ICANN's new [[gTLD]] program, and both went on the be employed in new gTLD-related ventures.<ref name="revolvingdoor">[http://domainincite.com/calls-to-fix-new-gtld-revolving-door-at-icann/ Calls to Fix Revolving Door]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 June 26.</ref>

ICANN's CEO, [[Rod Beckstrom]] had previously noted at the opening ceremony to ICANN 42, even before staff member moved on, that he was encouraged by the fact that the ICANN community was moving to fix the lack of clear ethics rules within the organization. Following these developments, ICANN announced it would hire outside ethics experts to review its policies and make recommendations. The decision was made during a September, 2011 meeting of the board governance committee.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/icann-to-hire-conflict-of-interest-experts/ ICANN to Hire Conflict of Interest Experts]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 October 6.</ref>

ICANN's CEO, [[Rod Beckstrom]] had previously noted at the opening ceremony of [[ICANN 42]], even before staff members moved on, that he was encouraged by the fact that the ICANN community was moving to fix the lack of clear ethics rules within the organization. Following these developments, ICANN announced it would hire outside ethics experts to review its policies and make recommendations. The decision was made during a September 2011 meeting of the board governance committee.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/icann-to-hire-conflict-of-interest-experts/ ICANN to Hire Conflict of Interest Experts]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 October 6.</ref>

===Manwin Anti-Trust Lawsuit===

===Manwin Anti-Trust Lawsuit===

===Employ Media Arbitration===

===Employ Media Arbitration===

[[Employ Media]] requested an arbitration proceeding to resolve the notice of breach on the [[.jobs]] registry agreement issued by ICANN on February 27, 2011 in connection with the universe.jobs website. The jobs board website was launched by Employ Media in partnership with the Direct Employers Association, which the registry operator allowed to register more than 40 thousand .jobs domain names used on the jobs board to advertise job opportunities for more than 5,000 leading companies in the United States. ICANN claimed that that universe.jobs appeared to be in competition with other companies offering the same service and Employ Media's actions violated its charter. ICANN directed the .jobs registry operator and the [[SHRM|Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the sponsoring organization, to resolve the issues mentioned in the notice of breach and to comply with its charter. ICANN threatened to terminate the .jobs registry agreement if the problems were not be resolved. Employ Media argued that the universe.jobs was launched in compliance with the Phase Allocation Program, which was approved by ICANN. Although the registry operator was disappointed with ICANN's actions Employ Media agreed to resolve the issue by invoking the cooperative agreement provisions in the registry agreement. During the cooperative negotiations, Employ Media agreed to stop registering non-company name domain names until May 6, 2011. However, the company abandoned the cooperative agreement proceedings when it learned that ICANN posted the information about their cooperative negotiations regarding the notice of breach. Employ Media also accused ICANN of "bad faith action." ICANN's legal counsel explained that the internet governing body is just performing its duty to maintain accountability and transparency. When ICANN responded to the Employ Media's arbitration request it reiterated its strong position the Employ Media violated its charter and its decision was appropriate. ICANN asked the court to deny the registry operator's request for relief. At present, both parties are still waiting for the the schedule of their arbitration proceedings from the [[ICC|International Chamber of Commerce]] (ICC) [[International Court of Arbitration]].<ref>[http://domainincite.com/icann-threatens-to-shut-down-jobs/ ICANN threatens to shut down .jobs]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 February 28.</ref> <ref>

[[Employ Media]] requested an arbitration proceeding to resolve the notice of breach on the [[.jobs]] registry agreement issued by ICANN on February 27, 2011, in connection with the universe.jobs website. The jobs board website was launched by Employ Media in partnership with the Direct Employers Association, which the registry operator allowed to register more than 40 thousand .jobs domain names used on the jobs board to advertise job opportunities for more than 5,000 leading companies in the United States. ICANN claimed that the universe.jobs appeared to be in competition with other companies offering the same service and Employ Media's actions violated its charter. ICANN directed the .jobs registry operator and the [[SHRM|Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the sponsoring organization, to resolve the issues mentioned in the notice of breach and to comply with its charter. ICANN threatened to terminate the .jobs registry agreement if the problems were not resolved. Employ Media argued that the universe.jobs was launched in compliance with the Phase Allocation Program, which was approved by ICANN. Although the registry operator was disappointed with ICANN's actions Employ Media agreed to resolve the issue by invoking the cooperative agreement provisions in the registry agreement. During the cooperative negotiations, Employ Media agreed to stop registering non-company name domain names until May 6, 2011. However, the company abandoned the cooperative agreement proceedings when it learned that ICANN posted information about their cooperative negotiations regarding the notice of breach. Employ Media also accused ICANN of "bad faith action." ICANN's legal counsel explained that the internet governing body is just performing its duty to maintain accountability and transparency. When ICANN responded to Employ Media's arbitration request it reiterated its strong position that Employ Media violated its charter and that its decision was appropriate. ICANN asked the court to deny the registry operator's request for relief. At present, both parties are still waiting for the schedule of their arbitration proceedings from the [[ICC|International Chamber of Commerce]] (ICC) [[International Court of Arbitration]].<ref>[http://domainincite.com/icann-threatens-to-shut-down-jobs/ ICANN threatens to shut down .jobs]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 February 28.</ref> <ref>

[http://goto.jobs/pdf/Response%20to%20ICANN%20Notice.pdf  Employ Media Response to ICANN'S Notice of Breach]. dotJobs. Published 2011 February 28.</ref> <ref>

[http://goto.jobs/pdf/Response%20to%20ICANN%20Notice.pdf  Employ Media Response to ICANN'S Notice of Breach]. dotJobs. Published 2011 February 28.</ref> <ref>

[http://domainincite.com/registry-avoids-jobs-shut-down/ Registry avoids .jobs shut-down]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 April 20.</ref> <ref>[http://www.ere.net/tags/dotjobs/ .Jobs Manager Seeks Arbitration by International Court]</ref> <ref>[http://domainincite.com/war-of-words-over-jobs-breach-claims/ War of Words Over Jobs Breach Claims]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 May 3.</ref>

[http://domainincite.com/registry-avoids-jobs-shut-down/ Registry avoids .jobs shut-down]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 April 20.</ref> <ref>[http://www.ere.net/tags/dotjobs/ .Jobs Manager Seeks Arbitration by International Court]</ref> <ref>[http://domainincite.com/war-of-words-over-jobs-breach-claims/ War of Words Over Jobs Breach Claims]. Domain Incite. Published 2011 May 3.</ref>

===.JOBS Charter Compliance Coalition Criticism===

===.JOBS Charter Compliance Coalition Criticism===

One day before the implementation of the [[New gTLD Program|new gTLD program]], the [[.JOBS Charter Compliance Coalition]], sent a letter to ICANN detailing the internet governing body's failure to evaluate and investigate all comments and information submitted by entities against the request of the [[.jobs]] registry operator to change its charter. It pointed out that ICANN failed to acknowledge its mistake and overturn its decision when complaints and evidence were filed for reconsideration that Employ Media violated its charter. The coalition chairman stated that ICANN was inefficient in dealing with the arbitration proceedings to immediately resolve Employ Media's charter violation, and consequently the company continues to exploit the .jobs TLD and expand the universe.jobs website. Furthermore, it said that the internet community is concerned that ICANN's new gTLD program's multiple stakeholder protection mechanisms might end up mismanaged just like the .jobs TLD and ICANN's promises are "empty words." Moreover, Bell requested the ICANN Board to publicly disqualify Employ Media and its partner, the Direct Employers Association ,from the [[New gTLD Program|new gTLD expansion program]] because the registry operator has a "history of abuse." According to its Chairman, this is the only way for ICANN to regain a measure of regulatory authority.<ref>

One day before the implementation of the [[New gTLD Program|new gTLD program]], the [[.JOBS Charter Compliance Coalition]], sent a letter to ICANN detailing the internet governing body's failure to evaluate and investigate all comments and information submitted by entities against the request of the [[.jobs]] registry operator to change its charter. It pointed out that ICANN failed to acknowledge its mistake and overturn its decision when complaints and evidence were filed for reconsideration that Employ Media violated its charter. The coalition chairman stated that ICANN was inefficient in dealing with the arbitration proceedings to immediately resolve Employ Media's charter violation, and consequently, the company continues to exploit the .jobs TLD and expand the universe.jobs website. Furthermore, it said that the internet community is concerned that ICANN's new gTLD program's multiple stakeholder protection mechanisms might end up mismanaged just like the .jobs TLD and ICANN's promises are "empty words." Moreover, Bell requested the ICANN Board to publicly disqualify Employ Media and its partner, the Direct Employers Association,from the [[New gTLD Program|new gTLD expansion program]] because the registry operator has a "history of abuse." According to its Chairman, this is the only way for ICANN to regain a measure of regulatory authority.<ref>

[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2012/01/11/dot-jobs-could-kill-icann The case study that could kill ICANN]. dotnxt. Published 2012 January 11.</ref>

[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2012/01/11/dot-jobs-could-kill-icann The case study that could kill ICANN]. dotnxt. Published 2012 January 11.</ref>

==Awards==

==Awards==

In May, 2012, ICANN was recognized by The Board of Trustees of Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Informatics Award with their 11th 'Informatics Medal'. The medal is given with appreciation for the organization's efforts at maintaining and strengthening the Internet's infrastructure. The Board also expressed gratitude for the role that ICANN has played in developing and deploying Arabic [[IDN]]'s, which allow Arabic populations to surf the web without relying on foreign characters or domains. The award has been given out since 2007, and is given to institutions or public figures that are influential in the fields of Informatics and Internet Development. It was received on behalf of ICANN by the company's President and CEO, [[Rod Beckstrom]].<ref>[http://www.kuna.net.kw/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=2237530&language=en Informatics prize for ICANN - Salem Ali Prize panel]. Kuna. Published 2012 May 1.</ref><ref>[http://blog.icann.org/2012/05/icann-receives-arab-world-award/ ICANN Receives Arab World Award]. ICANN. Published 2012 May 22.</ref>

In May 2012, ICANN was recognized by The Board of Trustees of Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Informatics Award with their 11th 'Informatics Medal'. The medal is given with appreciation for the organization's efforts at maintaining and strengthening the Internet's infrastructure. The Board also expressed gratitude for the role that ICANN has played in developing and deploying Arabic [[IDN]]'s, which allow Arabic populations to surf the web without relying on foreign characters or domains. The award has been given out since 2007 and is given to institutions or public figures that are influential in the fields of Informatics and Internet Development. It was received on behalf of ICANN by the company's President and CEO, [[Rod Beckstrom]].<ref>[http://www.kuna.net.kw/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=2237530&language=en Informatics prize for ICANN - Salem Ali Prize panel]. Kuna. Published 2012 May 1.</ref><ref>[http://blog.icann.org/2012/05/icann-receives-arab-world-award/ ICANN Receives Arab World Award]. ICANN. Published 2012 May 22.</ref>

=References=

=References=

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