August 2025 - At-Large - lists.icann.org

SAC130: SSAC Comments on Name Collision Guidelines in the Proposed Language for the Draft Next Round Applicant Guidebook
by Matthias M. Hudobnik April 24, 2026

April 24, 2026

Dear Colleagues, The SSAC welcomes the opportunity to comment on ICANN's Draft Applicant Guidebook (AGB) for the New gTLD Program: Next Round. Our comments focus on improving Section 6.7 on Name Collisions, with an emphasis on risks arising from collisions between DNS and alternative naming systems (e.g., blockchain-based systems), as outlined in the Name Collision Analysis Project Study 2 Report (NCAP2). SUMMARY OF KEY RECOMMENDATIONS: * Clarify TRT's Role in Initial Assessments AGB §6.7.2 does not clearly state that the Technical Review Team (TRT) conducts the initial name collision risk assessment. NCAP2 indicates TRT is responsible from the outset. _Recommendation:_ Explicitly assign the initial assessment to the TRT. * Enable Pre-Delegation Action on High-Risk Strings Current language suggests high-risk strings are identified only after temporary delegation. NCAP2 supports action based on existing data. _Recommendation:_ Allow TRT to recommend withholding delegation if early analysis shows high risk. * Broaden TRT's Assessment Scope Beyond DNS Data Limiting analysis to DNS logs misses collisions from alternative namespaces that resolve via DNS (e.g., users accustomed to _.wallet_ from blockchain). _Recommendation:_ Permit use of OSINT, qualitative assessments, and external data sources per NCAP2. * Allow TRT Flexibility to Evolve Assessment Methods AGB cites four NCAP2 methods (NI, CI, VI, VIN), but doesn't state whether TRT may adopt new techniques. _Recommendation:_ Affirm TRT's discretion to evolve methods to address future risks. These updates will better align the AGB with NCAP2 and ICANN Board guidance, while improving transparency, security, and technical rigor in handling name collisions. The SSAC appreciates the efforts of the ICANN org and Subsequent Procedures IRT, and we are available for further discussion. Link: https://itp.cdn.icann.org/en/files/security-and-stability-advisory-committe…. Best, Matthias

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Invitation to APAC Webinar on ICANN’s Applicant Support Program (ASP), 3 Sep 2025 at 05:00 UTC
by Justine Chew Sept. 3, 2025

Sept. 3, 2025

Dear colleagues, For the first time in over a decade, businesses, communities, regional and local governments, non-profits, and other organizations will have the opportunity to apply for a new generic top-level domain (gTLD). A TLD is the part of a web address that comes after the last dot. For example, in www.icann.org, “.org” is the TLD. TLDs are unique digital assets that can be used to serve diverse cultural, geographic, linguistic, and professional communities, and provide a unique and secure space for customers and constituents online. Today there are more than 1,200 new gTLDs representing brands and businesses like .microsoft and .toyota, cities and regions like .amsterdam, and communities like .kids. Plus, there are gTLDs available in different scripts representing many languages. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is the organization that coordinates the Internet’s Domain Name System. ICANN <http://www.icann.org/>, in partnership with the Asian, Australasian and Pacific Islands Regional At-Large Organization (APRALO) <https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AoDdBg>, will host a webinar mainly for prospective and current applicants from the Asia Pacific to learn more about the resources available to help with the ASP and gTLD application processes. The webinar will cover: - How a gTLD can be used to create a meaningful and trusted digital space. - The availability of financial and non-financial assistance through the Applicant Support Program including information on how to apply and qualify for support. - Introductions to volunteer professional service providers and mentors, willing to provide general business support, application assistance, or technical assistance. - Key dates and milestones ahead. *Join us on 3 September 2025 at 05:00 UTC. Pre-registration <https://icann.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zs1c7B-9RXWFsUkP4mmh6w> is required.* Please feel free to share this invitation with interested persons, especially from the APAC region. Kind regards, APRALO Leadership Team

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APRALO Bytes - Applicant Support, 26 Aug 2025
by Justine Chew Aug. 28, 2025

Aug. 28, 2025

Hello again everyone, Here is this week's *APRALO Byte*, which is on the topic of *Applicant Support*, published at https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/APRALO/pages/412844037/AP… (click on 'Read more'). We would also like to take the opportunity to invite you to join the Applicant Support Program Webinar for the APAC Region <https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/GABmGg> to be held on 3 September 2025 at 05:00 UTC, hosted by ICANN in partnership with APRALO. Pre-registration <https://icann.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zs1c7B-9RXWFsUkP4mmh6w> is required. Kind regards, APRALO Leadership Team *------------**----------* *APRALO Bytes* (see: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/BYCbG) is an APRALO initiative aimed at *keeping the community apprised* of issues or topics of importance to the At-Large and/or APRALO community in a manner that is* issue/topic-focused, informative yet lightweight*, *while encouraging community interest and discourse* in such issues/topics. .

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APRALO Bytes - Review of ICANN Reviews, 13 Aug 2025
by Justine Chew Aug. 27, 2025

Aug. 27, 2025

Dear all, We are pleased to share the second *APRALO Byte*, which is on the topic of *Review of ICANN Reviews*, published at https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/APRALO/pages/412844037/AP… (click on 'Read more'). Kind regards, APRALO Leadership Team *------------**----------* *APRALO Bytes* (see: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/BYCbG) is an APRALO initiative aimed at *keeping the community apprised* of issues or topics of importance to the At-Large and/or APRALO community in a manner that is* issue/topic-focused, informative yet lightweight*, *while encouraging community interest and discourse* in such issues/topics.

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APRALO Bytes - DNS Abuse, 6 Aug 2025
by Justine Chew Aug. 27, 2025

Aug. 27, 2025

Hello everyone, At the August 2025 ALAC Monthly Call <https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AQCeFw>, it was reported that APRALO has introduced a new initiative called *APRALO Bytes* which is single issue bulletin initiative aimed at keeping the APRALO community apprised of issues or topics of importance to the At-Large and/or APRALO community in a manner that is informative yet lightweight, while encouraging community interest and discourse in such issues/topics. The first Byte was on DNS Abuse (6 Aug), the second was on Review of ICANN Reviews (13 Aug) and the latest one was on Applicant Support (26 Aug). The first APRALO Byte on *DNS Abuse*, which is published at https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/APRALO/pages/412844037/AP… (click on 'Read more'). The second and third Bytes will be shared separately. We hope you will find our Bytes informative ! With kind regards on behalf of the APRALO Leadership Team, Justine

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Call for Participants: Summer School on Internet Governance and International Law
by Joanna Kulesza Aug. 25, 2025

Aug. 25, 2025

📅 *22–26 September 2025* | 📍 University of Łódź, Faculty of Law and Administration We are excited to announce this year’s *Summer School on Internet Governance and International Law (SSIGIL 2025) <https://www.cyber.uni.lodz.pl/en/ssigil25>*. This initiative is part of an Internet Society Foundation research project on Satellite Broadband and International Law, co-organized with *GigaNet – Global Internet Governance Academic Network*, and conducted in partnership with: - *Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE)* - *United Nations University – Comparative Regional Integration Studies (UNU-CRIS)* - *Queen Mary University of London (QMUL)* - *University of Surrey* - *Stetson University College of Law* This year’s edition will focus on *Satellite Connectivity, Disaster Relief, Internet Governance, and International Law*, offering interactive discussions, hands-on exercises, and practical knowledge exchange. Who Should Apply? We welcome applications from individuals with interests in: - Satellite connectivity and broadband regulation - Disaster preparedness and emergency response - Internet governance and cybersecurity - International law relevant to connectivity and disaster zones - Sustainable development in disaster zones Participation Details - Participation is *free of charge*. - *Fellowships* are available to support accommodation and a lump-sum contribution toward travel expenses. Applicants requesting a fellowship should explicitly explain their financial support needs in their motivation letter. - Due to the interactive format, *space is limited* to ensure meaningful engagement. Application Requirements Applicants should submit: 1. *Motivation letter* (max. 500 words) explaining why you wish to participate, alignment with the Summer School themes, and, if applicable, fellowship support request. 2. *Curriculum Vitae (CV)* (max. 2 pages). 📌 *Deadline for Applications:* 1 September 2025 How to Apply Submit your application via the online form here: 👉 Application Form – SSIGIL 2025 <https://forms.office.com/Pages/DesignPageV2.aspx?origin=NeoPortalPage&subpa…> Alternatively, applications can be sent directly by email (motivation letter + CV) to: *ssigil(a)uni.lodz.pl <ssigil(a)uni.lodz.pl>* Application Review The *SSIGIL Programme Committee* will review applications on a rolling basis. Selected participants will be notified after the application deadline. We look forward to welcoming a dynamic group of participants to *SSIGIL 2025*, fostering active learning, knowledge exchange, and collaborative problem-solving in the context of disaster zone connectivity, Internet governance, and international law. -- Kind regards, Joanna Kulesza ------------------- Joanna Kulesza, PhD Professor of International Law Lodz Cyber Hub / University of Lodz Law School / Poland www.cyber.uni.lodz.pl (EURALO ALS 341) ALAC / EURALO / ALAC Liaison to the GAC

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The Limits of Governance
by Evan Leibovitch Aug. 18, 2025

Aug. 18, 2025

Hi all. This commentary is somewhat more high level than usual, and does not deal with Internet names and numbers specifically. But I think the point to be made is important since so many of the people in this community are involved -- some indeed as a career path -- in the realm of what is known in these circles as Internet Governance (of which ICANN is a small but important part). I have made the point before that, in the absence of being backed by international treaty, Internet Governance as we know it has its foundation on a bed of quicksand. And now WSIS+20 has come and gone with little to show for it beyond the usual platitudes and aspirations and commitments to keep talking -- basically an IGF meeting on steroids. Different approaches and ideas are necessary to prevent this world from descending into irrelevance (if that hasn't already happened). I'm not expecting much from the official UNGA declaration in December. I have sadly come to the same conclusion George Carlin expressed 17 years ago <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_FQZUSy1Vg>, that there are no such things as human rights, just privileges and aspirations. Any "rights" which can be bestowed by governments or religions can be just as easily subverted by those same entities. The latest move to confirm this thesis is the move of the EU towards eliminating all citizen privacy(*) in digital communications in its proposed Chat Control Law, shrouded under the usual political obfuscation. (Hint: just about every regulation that claims to protect children is a thinly shrouded campaign to control adults.) (*) The politicians making these decisions have, of course, exempted themselves. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NyUgv6dpJc https://fightchatcontrol.eu/ My Carlin reference is because this is the same EU that gave the world the vaunted GDPR; ie, you are entitled to privacy ... until you aren't. If that isn't safe then nothing is. Free-speech, due-process and even core participatory "rights" in many supposedly liberal democracies are under threats not experienced in my lifetime. To me one answer here is to, unfortunately, aim lower. The massive shopping list of WSIS issues needs to be pared down dramatically, to make a concise and compelling case for protecting the world's citizens as much from their governments as from the handful of companies that control the world's Internet and AI infrastructures. It's better to start from no rights and build up than starting from infinite rights and then having to choose which ones to jettison along the way. (Personally, I would just start with the Golden Rule <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Rule> which has equivalencies in every culture and religion, and work up from there.) I don't claim to have all the answers, or indeed any. But there are some really smart people in these groups, many of whom have dedicated their lives to making the digital world useful and productive for everyone. Their work is cut out for them should they choose to actually advance these causes, because the current path is practically guaranteed not to succeed, as we are seeing in real time. Something else is needed. Time to innovate. The choice is discomfort or futility. -- Evan Leibovitch, Toronto Canada @evanleibovitch / @el56

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Launch of The Internet Ecosystem Book
by Nikesh B. Simmandree Aug. 18, 2025

Aug. 18, 2025

Dear Community, I am thrilled to announce the launch of my book, The Internet Ecosystem — a comprehensive exploration of the history, architecture, governance, and future of the Internet. This book distills decades of technological evolution — from ARPANET and packet switching, to AI, Web3, quantum networks, and beyond — into a clear, engaging narrative accessible to both technical and non-technical readers What the Book Covers * The Past: How Cold War research, ARPANET, and packet switching gave birth to the Internet we know today. * The Present: The intricate roles of ISPs, backbone providers, cloud infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, and global governance shaping our daily online experiences. * The Future: Insights into 5G/6G, blockchain, immersive technologies, quantum security, and the Internet in 2050. With 49 detailed chapters, the book provides a definitive yet approachable reference for students, professionals, policymakers, and curious readers alike. My mission with The Internet Ecosystem is to make the Internet’s complexity understandable — showing not only how the Internet works, but also why it matters and has become one of the most transformative human inventions — while sparking dialogue on how we build a secure, inclusive, and sustainable digital future. In the 21st century, understanding the Internet is not optional — it’s essential. Whether you’re a business leader, policymaker, educator, student, or everyday Internet user, this book provides the context and clarity you need to navigate the opportunities and challenges of our connected world. Get Your Copy The Internet Ecosystem is now available: https://payhip.com/b/hfvYg Thank you, Best Regards, Nikesh B. Simmandree +230-5-907-3413 nikeshbs(a)outlook.com This message and its attachments are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and are strictly confidential. If you have received this in error, please delete it from any devices after having informed the sender.

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Launch of The Internet Ecosystem Book
by Nikesh B. Simmandree Aug. 18, 2025

Aug. 18, 2025

Dear Community, I am thrilled to announce the launch of my book, The Internet Ecosystem — a comprehensive exploration of the history, architecture, governance, and future of the Internet. This book distills decades of technological evolution — from ARPANET and packet switching, to AI, Web3, quantum networks, and beyond — into a clear, engaging narrative accessible to both technical and non-technical readers What the Book Covers * The Past: How Cold War research, ARPANET, and packet switching gave birth to the Internet we know today. * The Present: The intricate roles of ISPs, backbone providers, cloud infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, and global governance shaping our daily online experiences. * The Future: Insights into 5G/6G, blockchain, immersive technologies, quantum security, and the Internet in 2050. With 49 detailed chapters, the book provides a definitive yet approachable reference for students, professionals, policymakers, and curious readers alike. My mission with The Internet Ecosystem is to make the Internet’s complexity understandable — showing not only how the Internet works, but also why it matters and has become one of the most transformative human inventions — while sparking dialogue on how we build a secure, inclusive, and sustainable digital future. In the 21st century, understanding the Internet is not optional — it’s essential. Whether you’re a business leader, policymaker, educator, student, or everyday Internet user, this book provides the context and clarity you need to navigate the opportunities and challenges of our connected world. Get Your Copy The Internet Ecosystem is now available: https://payhip.com/b/hfvYg Thank you, Best Regards, Nikesh B. Simmandree +230-5-907-3413 nikeshbs(a)outlook.com This message and its attachments are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and are strictly confidential. If you have received this in error, please delete it from any devices after having informed the sender.

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Invitation to 2nd Webinar on WSIS+20 series I 13 August at 13:00 UTC
by Amrita Choudhury Aug. 11, 2025

Aug. 11, 2025

Dear All, The IGF MAG Working Group Strategy is delighted to invite you to the second webinar in the WSIS+20 series, on 13 August at 13:00 UTC. This session will be a structured and engaging debate around the Elements Paper, offering a space for key stakeholders to present their positions, share reflections, and engage in dialogue on the future of the WSIS process and the IGF. Being an interactive session, your contributions will be central to enriching this dialogue and shaping the discussion. Here is the speaker line-up along with the non-paper documents that will be presented: 1. IIDA (or Mr. Teramura), Representative from Japan - Japan Pape <https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pf4HF0ZhokVe10p6hDW2pzYBqtzVbLpU/edit> r 2. Jordan Carter – Internet Governance & Policy Director, auDA (Australia) - auDA internet governance roadmap <https://www.auda.org.au/public-impact/internet-governance-and-public-policy…> 3. Daphne Barbotte – Permanent Representative of the European Commission to the United Nations, New York - EU non-paper on World Summit on the Information Society WSIS+20 stakeholder participation <https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/un-new-york/eu-non-paper-world-summi…> - WSIS+20_EU non-paper on WSIS-SDG-GDC Roadmaps <https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hvcKBjRhfffnCgmpi0a29K5A1GkA_-xD/view?usp=…> - WSIS+20_EU non-paper on IGF <https://drive.google.com/file/d/12cBpFryK21ghVPulf6EAGYUzenIMdD0-/view?usp=…> - WSIS+20_EU non-paper on Human Rights <https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q3FKe5pPmnNub6Xo4JbPRy1KGlcw5QxQ/view?usp=…> 4. Juan Fernandez – Representative of the Cuban Government - Cuban WSIS+20 Paper <https://unctad.org/system/files/non-official-document/wsis20_c37_cuba_es.pdf> 5. Joyti Panday – Researcher, Internet Governance Project (IGP) - WSIS+20 Stakeholder Consultations: IGP’s Input <https://www.internetgovernance.org/2025/07/15/wsis20-stakeholder-consultati…> You can find further details on the session here <https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Q2A4AMjUBaWReY7n0l0ogIq6ocIvlqgM/edit> As with the first session, the webinar will be recorded on the IGF YouTube channel and later published on the MAG WG Strategy page. Link details:https://intgovforum.zoom.us/j/95133802004 We look forward to your participation and to the stimulating discussion we will have together. Regards Amrita

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