July 2018 - Ccnso-council - lists.icann.org

DECISION NEEDEDL: Two options for IFRT
by Katrina Sataki July 31, 2018

July 31, 2018

Dear Councillors, DECISION IS NEEDED As you remember, we must to appoint three members to IANA Function Review team (IFRT). We have to appoint 2 representatives from ccTLDs that are ccNSO members and 1 representative from a ccTLD that is not a ccNSO member. Plus, each our appointed member has to be from a different ICANN region. That is - we need to select three people from three ICANN regions. Appointment is due 28 August but it is already clear that we will not make it in time. The GRC has discussed different scenarios but does not have a clear opinion on what would be the best way forward. Currently, we have come up with a temporary guideline. The idea is to test it in real life and then tweak it for future use. I am sending you two versions - version A and version B. I will try to briefly describe the difference between the two. Version A. The entire Council participates in selection of each candidate. Candidates are divided in two pools (Pool A for ccNSO members and Pool B for ccNSO non-members). The voting takes place in three rounds - during each round we select ONE member from the least regionally diverse pool (or from both pools simultaneously if they are equally diverse and non-ccNSO member candidate has not been selected yet). Pluses: - it allows every Councillor to participate in the selection of each candidate - it allows to weight candidates every time we know who has already been selected (gives more opportunity for diversity - except regional diversity) Minuses: - the algorithm is pretty complex (but that is the only one I can think of if we want 17 people to select members that match all of the requirements) - does not take into account the willingness of candidates to be a co-chair - short times to vote for each candidate (3 working days) - takes longer in total (at least 9 working days plus weekends) Version B. The entire Council ranks all the candidates in one long list. Then the Chair and Vice-chairs go through the list and hand-pick three candidates that match regional diversity and membership criteria, taking into account Council's choices as much as possible. Pluses: - simpler and faster (7 working days for voting plus a couple of days to hand-pick three) - longer time to evaluate and rank the candidates (7 working days) - might be possible to take into account the willingness to serve as a co-chair (but that might not be easy). Minuses: - the ccNSO Council ranks the candidates only once and then three people determine the final outcome. As this is temporary procedure, we can follow it or agree on a completely different mechanism. The only problem - we need to act quickly. Therefore, by 5 August, please send your preference - Version A or Version B - to the mailing list. If you wish to propose a version C (D, E, F.), please feel free to do it. If we agree on the procedure, then: - 7 August: send out a call for Expression of Interest - 21 August: closure of the call for EoI - Depending on the preferred procedure: o Version A - 5 September: three members selected o Version B - 30 August: three members selected Please let us know your preference by 5 August! Kind regards, ]{atrina

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Re: [ccnso-council] call for topics, joint meeting: ccNSO & ICANN Board | ICANN63 (Barcelona)
by Peter Vergote July 31, 2018

July 31, 2018

Hi all, Very much like the suggestions made by Giovanni. So +1 for those. One that carries my interest: * What is a realistic planning for the next gTLD application round to start according to the Board? (2019, 2020, or even later?) Best, Peter From: Ccnso-council <ccnso-council-bounces(a)icann.org> on behalf of "giovanni.seppia(a)eurid.eu" <Giovanni.Seppia(a)eurid.eu> Date: Monday, 30 July 2018 at 15:50 To: Joke Braeken <joke.braeken(a)icann.org>, "ccnso-council(a)icann.org" <ccnso-council(a)icann.org> Subject: Re: [ccnso-council] call for topics, joint meeting: ccNSO & ICANN Board | ICANN63 (Barcelona) Hi Joke, Thanks for this message. I’d like to suggest the following points: * Board plans for the next Strategy Plan and their views on the domain name market * What the community could do differently to help ICANN to prioritise objectives and optimise the budget spending Best, Giovanni Giovanni Seppia External Relations Manager EURid Woluwelaan 150 1831 Diegem - Belgium TEL: +32 (0) 2 401 2750 MOB:+39 335 8141733 giovanni.seppia(a)eurid.eu<mailto:giovanni.seppia@eurid.eu> http://www.eurid.eu<http://www.eurid.eu/> [WA_signaturebanner_2018] Please consider the environment before printing this email. From: Ccnso-council <ccnso-council-bounces(a)icann.org> On Behalf Of Joke Braeken Sent: 30 July 2018 15:35 To: ccnso-council(a)icann.org Subject: [ccnso-council] call for topics, joint meeting: ccNSO & ICANN Board | ICANN63 (Barcelona) Dear all, The ccNSO Secretariat is now collecting suggestions for topics and discussion points at the upcoming joint meeting between the ccNSO and the ICANN Board in Barcelona (ICANN62). Kindly let me know at your earliest convenience if you have any suggestions. Thank you. Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org Disclaimer: This email and any attachment hereto is intended solely for the person to which it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient or if you have received this email in error, please delete it and immediately contact the sender by telephone or email, and destroy any copies of this information. You should not use or copy it, nor disclose its content to any other person or rely upon this information. Please note that any views presented in the email and any attachment hereto are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of EURid. Any processing of personal data via email is done in accordance with our Privacy Policy<https://eurid.eu/en/other-infomation/privacy-policy>. While all care has been taken to avoid any known viruses, the recipient is advised to check this email and any attachment for presence of viruses. Other languages: English<http://www.eurid.eu/en/legal-disclaimer> Estonian<http://www.eurid.eu/et/legal-disclaimer> Italian<http://www.eurid.eu/it/legal-disclaimer> Maltese<http://www.eurid.eu/mt/legal-disclaimer> Romanian<http://www.eurid.eu/ro/legal-disclaimer> Swedish<http://www.eurid.eu/sv/legal-disclaimer> Czech<http://www.eurid.eu/cs/legal-disclaimer> Spanish<http://www.eurid.eu/es/legal-disclaimer> Latvian<http://www.eurid.eu/lv/legal-disclaimer> Dutch<http://www.eurid.eu/nl/legal-disclaimer> Slovak<http://www.eurid.eu/sk/legal-disclaimer> Greek<http://www.eurid.eu/el/legal-disclaimer> Danish<http://www.eurid.eu/da/legal-disclaimer> French<http://www.eurid.eu/fr/legal-disclaimer> Lithuanian<http://www.eurid.eu/lt/legal-disclaimer> Polish<http://www.eurid.eu/pl/legal-disclaimer> Slovenian<http://www.eurid.eu/sl/legal-disclaimer> Bulgarian<http://www.eurid.eu/bg/legal-disclaimer> German<http://www.eurid.eu/de/legal-disclaimer> Gaelic<http://www.eurid.eu/ga/legal-disclaimer> Hungarian<http://www.eurid.eu/hu/legal-disclaimer> Portuguese<http://www.eurid.eu/pt/legal-disclaimer> Finnish<http://www.eurid.eu/fi/legal-disclaimer> Croatian<http://www.eurid.eu/hr/legal-disclaimer>

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Triage 35-2018: Methodology Review DAAR System
by Joke Braeken July 31, 2018

July 31, 2018

Dear ccNSO council members, Please find below the proposed triage recommendation(s) [35- 2018]. Kindly provide me with your input by the end of 2 august 2018, 23:59 UTC, in case you do not agree with the proposed recommendation(s). Thank you. Topic: 35-2018: Methodology Review DAAR System Summary of request: ICANN announced the publication of a paper describing the methodology used in the Domain Abuse Activity Reporting (DAAR) system and two reviews of that methodology. ICANN welcomes comments on the reports and reviews Read more: https://www.icann.org/news/announcement-2018-07-20-en Date received: 23 July 2018 Last day for comments/input/response, if any: 24 August 2018 Recommended action, if any: share with ccnso-council(a)icann.org<mailto:ccnso-council@icann.org>, ccnso-members(a)icann.org<mailto:ccnso-members@icann.org>; ccTLDcommunity(a)cctld-managers.org<mailto:ccTLDcommunity@cctld-managers.org> and on the ccNSO social media channels. Expertise needed, if any: DAAR, security, network operations Date of submission to Triage Committee: 25 July 2018 Deadline Triage Committee input: Fri, 27 July 2018, 23:59 UTC Date of submission to Council: Tue, 31 July 2018 Deadline Council decision: Thu, 2 August 2018, 23:59 UTC Impact on ccNSO/ccTLDs: low Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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OPINION NEEDED: comments on reviews
by Katrina Sataki July 30, 2018

July 30, 2018

Dear Councillors, Your opinion is needed! As you may remember, we've tasked the GRC to prepare comments on the reviews document published by ICANN org. Comments are to be submitted by the end of July. Unfortunately, the work is still in progress and I do not expect the document to be in your mailboxes before the end of the week. Hence, the question - are you ready to approve it within 2 days or you prefer that the comments are submitted by the GRC? Please note, comments submitted by the Council, of course, have more weight than those submitted by a working group. Thank you, ]{atrina

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call for topics, joint meeting: ccNSO & ICANN Board | ICANN63 (Barcelona)
by Joke Braeken July 30, 2018

July 30, 2018

Dear all, The ccNSO Secretariat is now collecting suggestions for topics and discussion points at the upcoming joint meeting between the ccNSO and the ICANN Board in Barcelona (ICANN62). Kindly let me know at your earliest convenience if you have any suggestions. Thank you. Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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Resolution - online decision. Appointment chair ccNSO Study Group on Use Emoji as Second Level Domains
by Joke Braeken July 29, 2018

July 29, 2018

Dear Councillors, Please find below a draft resolution, presented to you for an online decision. Kindly provide me with your input by the end of Wednesday 1 August 2018, 23:59 UTC, in case you do not agree with the proposed resolution. Appointment chair ccNSO Study Group on Use Emoji as Second Level Domains For decision: formal appointment chair to the ccNSO Study Group on Use Emoji as Second Level Domains. Peter Koch (.de) has stepped forward as candidate chair of the ccNSO Study Group on Use Emoji as Second Level Domains. Draft Resolution The ccNSO Council approves Peter Koch (.de) to be the chair of the ccNSO Study Group on Use Emoji as Second Level Domains. The secretariat is requested to inform the Study Group and to take all other necessary steps to include Peter as chair. Thank you. Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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New membership application, from .LS (Lesotho)
by Abibu R. Ntahigiye July 25, 2018

July 25, 2018

Dear All, The ccNSO Secretariat has received a new application for ccNSO membership, from .LS (Lesotho). Kindly provide me with your input by the end of Thursday 26 July 2018, 23:59 UTC, in case you do not agree with the ccNSO membership accreditation. The following checks have been completed for this ccNSO membership application: 1.The ccNSO Secretariat confirms that the application details are those by the ccTLD Manager as specified in the IANA Database 2.The ccNSO Secretariat informed the PTI staff about the membership application. 3.PTI staff confirmed that they do not have any currently pending changes for .LS nor are they aware of any issues. 4.Additionally, PTI Staff mentions that the request below is consistent with the Transfer request that was just completed for .LS in June where the TLD manager changed to Lesotho Network Information Centre Proprietary (LSNIC). Details of the application: Signed by Mamothokoane Tlali for and on behalf of Lesotho Network Information Centre: Name of ccTLD Manager: Lesotho Network Information Centre Name of Representative: Mamothokoane Tlali Name of Primary Contact: Mamothokoane Tlali Primary Contact Address: Lesotho Network Information Centre 30 princess Margaret road Old Europa Maseru Lesotho Primary Contact Telephone Number: +26622224300 Primary Contact E-Mail:mtlali@lca.org.ls <mailto:mtlali@lca.org.ls> brgds -- Eng. Abibu R. Ntahigiye | CEO, Tanzania Network Information Centre, 147 Kambarage Road - Mikocheni Tel: +255 (22) 2772659 | Mobile: +255 767 279511 Fax: +255 (22) 2772660 Email: abibu(a)tznic.or.tz | Website: www.tznic.or.tz Visit www.karibu.tz for your .tz domain registration

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New membership application, from .kw
by Abibu R. Ntahigiye July 25, 2018

July 25, 2018

// Dear all, The ccNSO Secretariat has received a new application for ccNSO membership. Kindly provide me with your input by the end of Wednesday, 25 July 2018 23:59 UTC, in case you do not agree with the ccNSO membership accreditation. Details of the application: Signed by Hasan Almahmeed for and on behalf of Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority: Name of ccTLD Manager: Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority Name of Representative: Hasan Almahmeed Name of Primary Contact: Manal Almazyad Primary Contact Address: Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority Kuwait Liberation Tower Qibla - Block 10 - Abdullah Al-Salem St - Parcel 900095 - PACI NO 90015758, Floor 7 Primary Contact Telephone Number: +96597775040 Primary Contact E-Mail:m.almazyad@citra.gov.kw <mailto:m.almazyad@citra.gov.kw> Please note that the address provided in the membership application is different than what has been included in the IANA database. The ccTLD Manager provided the following explanation: /“Regarding the difference between the two addresses; CITRA does have three headquarters. The address in IANA database is valid and belongs to one of CITRA HQs.////By the time when we updated the IANA information, the .KW team was based in the address stated in IANA DB. However, The team has moved to the address specified in the ccNSO application. We can still keep and use the address in IANA DB but we do prefer to use the one in ccNSO application to avoid delays due to redirections.”/ rgds -- Eng. Abibu R. Ntahigiye | CEO, Tanzania Network Information Centre, 147 Kambarage Road - Mikocheni Tel: +255 (22) 2772659 | Mobile: +255 767 279511 Fax: +255 (22) 2772660 Email:abibu@tznic.or.tz | Website:www.tznic.or.tz Visitwww.karibu.tz for your .tz domain registration

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ICANN Announces Calls-to-Action for Community Participation in ICANN Reviews
by Joke Braeken July 25, 2018

July 25, 2018

Dear all, ICANN has several calls-to-action for community participation in ICANN reviews below. https://www.icann.org/news/announcement-2018-07-23-en · REVIEWS: Share your Public Comment on the Short-Term and Long-Term Options to Adjust the Timing of Reviews. ICANN has received input from the community that the current review schedule is placing strain on community resources. Following community input, ICANN published Short-Term [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_public-2…> and Long-Term [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_public-2…> options to adjust the timing of reviews for public comment. The extended close date for public comment is 31 July 2018 at 23:59 UTC. · SPECIFIC REVIEWS: Join the Registration Directory Service Review (RDS-WHOIS2) Review Team for its 26-27 July face-to-face meeting. The review team will review the recent work of its subgroups [community.icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__community.icann.org_x_…> and work to reach consensus on findings and recommendations for incorporation into its draft report. Click here [community.icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__community.icann.org_di…> to learn how to attend in person or remotely. · ORGANIZATIONAL REVIEWS: View the Final Report of the second Root Server System Advisory Committee Review (RSSAC2). The RSSAC2 Final Report [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_en_syste…> [PDF, 2.58 MB] includes an assessment of the RSSAC with eight principal findings and six principal recommendations for improving its operations with a focus on RSSAC's purpose, effectiveness, and accountability. Visit the Review Status Update Table [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_resource…> for the latest status on all active Specific and Organizational Reviews. Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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triage recommendation [34- 2018]. Initial Report on the New gTLD Subsequent Procedures Policy Development Process (Overarching Issues & Work Tracks 1-4)
by Joke Braeken July 20, 2018

July 20, 2018

Dear ccNSO council members, Please find below the proposed triage recommendation(s) [34- 2018]. Kindly provide me with your input by the end of 24 July 2018, 23:59 UTC, in case you do not agree with the proposed recommendation(s). Thank you. Topic: 34-2018: Initial Report on the New gTLD Subsequent Procedures Policy Development Process (Overarching Issues & Work Tracks 1-4) Summary of request: This public comment proceeding seeks to obtain input on the Initial Report of the New gTLD Subsequent Procedures Policy Development Process Working Group, which is chartered to evaluate what changes or additions need to be made to existing new gTLD policy recommendations. The document includes materials from the full Working Group and four sub-teams within the Working Group, Work Tracks 1-4. Work Track 5, focused on Geographic Names and the Top-Level, will produce a separate Initial Report. Read more: https://www.icann.org/news/announcement-2018-07-03-en [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_news_ann…> Date received: 5 July 2018 Last day for comments/input/response, if any: 05 September 2018 Recommended action, if any: share with ccnso-members(a)icann.org<mailto:ccnso-members@icann.org>; ccTLDcommunity(a)cctld-managers.org<mailto:ccTLDcommunity@cctld-managers.org> and on the ccNSO social media channels. Expertise needed, if any: policy development, new gTLDs Date of submission to Triage Committee: 9 July 2018 Deadline Triage Committee input: 11 July 2018, 23:59 UTC Date of submission to Council: 20 July 2018 Deadline Council decision: 24 July 2018, 23:59 UTC Impact on ccNSO/ccTLDs: low Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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Re: [ccnso-council] Reminder: Call for Volunteers: Expedited Policy Development Process (EPDP) on the Temporary Specification for gTLD Registration Data
by Katrina Sataki July 20, 2018

July 20, 2018

Dear Heather, Donna, and Rafik, On behalf of the ccNSO Council I would like to thank you for the invitation to appoint two members and two alternates to the EPDP on the Temporary Specification for gTLD Registration Data team. The ccNSO Council considered the invite and decided NOT to appoint members or alternates to the EPDP team. The ccNSO Council’s reasoning is: a. the policy remit of the ccNSO, as defined in the ICANN Bylaws, is limited and excludes a (policy) view of the ccNSO on WHOIS and TLD data collection, b. the requirement that ccNSO appointed members should represent the formal position of the ccNSO, and not their individual views or positions, is not in line with the ccNSO working procedures, and, c. individuals who meet the required skill-set and expertise cannot make the required time commitment. However, the ccNSO Council will encourage individual ccTLDs to share their experience when so asked by the GNSO Council and/or EPDP team. The ccNSO Council has also noted future opportunities to provide meaningful input to the documents during public comment periods. We would like to wish the team wisdom and all the best in meeting the objectives of the EPDP. Kind regards, Katrina Sataki Chair of the ccNSO Council From: Nathalie Peregrine [mailto:nathalie.peregrine@icann.org] Sent: Thursday, July 19, 2018 6:20 PM To: Katrina Sataki <katrina(a)nic.lv> Cc: Heather Forrest <haforrestesq(a)gmail.com>; Austin, Donna <Donna.Austin(a)team.neustar>; rafik.dammak(a)gmail.com; Caitlin Tubergen <caitlin.tubergen(a)icann.org>; Marika Konings <marika.konings(a)icann.org>; Bart Boswinkel <bart.boswinkel(a)icann.org>; gnso-secs(a)icann.org Subject: Reminder: Call for Volunteers: Expedited Policy Development Process (EPDP) on the Temporary Specification for gTLD Registration Data Dear Katrina, The GNSO Council approved the Charter <https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/file/field-file-attach/temp-spec…> for the Temporary Specification for gTLD Registration Data Expedited Policy Development Process Team (Temp Spec gTLD RD EPDP Team) earlier today. With that in mind, invitations for the first EPDP Team meeting will be sent out on Monday 23 July 2018. Please therefore be so kind as to send your appointed EPDP team members to gnso-secs(a)icann.org <mailto:gnso-secs@icann.org> before the deadline of Friday 20 July 2018. Kind regards, Nathalie From: Gnso-secs <gnso-secs-bounces(a)icann.org <mailto:gnso-secs-bounces@icann.org> > on behalf of Nathalie Peregrine <nathalie.peregrine(a)icann.org <mailto:nathalie.peregrine@icann.org> > Date: Thursday, July 12, 2018 at 11:19 AM To: Katrina Sataki <katrina(a)nic.lv <mailto:katrina@nic.lv> > Cc: Caitlin Tubergen <caitlin.tubergen(a)icann.org <mailto:caitlin.tubergen@icann.org> >, "gnso-secs(a)icann.org <mailto:gnso-secs@icann.org> " <gnso-secs(a)icann.org <mailto:gnso-secs@icann.org> >, Bart Boswinkel <bart.boswinkel(a)icann.org <mailto:bart.boswinkel@icann.org> >, "rafik.dammak(a)gmail.com <mailto:rafik.dammak@gmail.com> " <rafik.dammak(a)gmail.com <mailto:rafik.dammak@gmail.com> >, Marika Konings <marika.konings(a)icann.org <mailto:marika.konings@icann.org> >, "haforrestesq(a)gmail.com <mailto:haforrestesq@gmail.com> " <haforrestesq(a)gmail.com <mailto:haforrestesq@gmail.com> >, "Austin, Donna" <Donna.Austin(a)team.neustar <mailto:Donna.Austin@team.neustar> > Subject: [gnso-secs] Call for Volunteers: Expedited Policy Development Process (EPDP) on the Temporary Specification for gTLD Registration Data Dear Katrina, On behalf of the GNSO Council, please find attached the Call for Volunteers concerning the Expedited Policy Development Process (EPDP) on the Temporary Specification for gTLD Registration Data. Kind regards, Nathalie Nathalie Peregrine Manager, Operations Support (GNSO) Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) Email: nathalie.peregrine(a)icann.org Skype: nathalie.peregrine.icann Find out more about the GNSO by taking our interactive courses <applewebdata://EB3A6F47-9760-400D-A39B-A7EFFC56B467/learn.icann.org/courses…> and visiting the GNSO Newcomer pages <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__gnso.icann.org_sites_gn…>

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Successful Candidates Announced for ICANN63 Fellowship
by Joke Braeken July 20, 2018

July 20, 2018

Dear all, ICANN organization is pleased to announce the 45 individuals from 39 countries that have been selected to participate in the ICANN Fellowship Program at ICANN63 Annual General in Barcelona, Spain, from 20-25 October 2018. The successful candidates represent all sectors of society including, civil, government, ccTLD operations, academia, business community, technical, security, and end user groups. The Fellowship Program<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_fellowsh…> seeks out individuals who are interested in, or already engaged in, the various aspects of ICANN's work in policy building, the operation of the Domain Name System, and the security and stability of the global Internet. The goal of the program is to help create a broader and more diverse base of knowledgeable constituents. Priority is given to candidates currently living in underserved and underrepresented communities around the world, representing diversity of gender, sector, region, experience, expertise, and financial need. The ICANN org received a total of 471 applications for the ICANN63 Fellowship Program. Click this link <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_resource…> to see the list of selected candidates and to learn more about the Fellowship Program. Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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2018 Nominating Committee Update on Candidate Selections
by Joke Braeken July 20, 2018

July 20, 2018

Dear all, The 2018 Nominating Committee (NomCom) is pleased to announce that the selection of all 2018 open ICANN leadership positions [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_sites_de…> was finalized by the Committee at ICANN62 in Panama City, Panama. The selections for the three ICANN Board positions were decided unanimously. The ICANN organization has sent out communications to the successful candidates and any alternates, as well as to those who made it to the final round but were not selected this year. The NomCom plans to make a public announcement of the successful candidates in August 2018. For more information on the 2018 NomCom, including timeline and work phases, please visit https://www.icann.org/nomcom2018. Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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Request to Preserve WHOIS Data Referred to German Appeal Court
by Joke Braeken July 20, 2018

July 20, 2018

Dear all, ICANN was informed on 18 July 2018 that the Regional Court in Bonn, Germany, has decided to refer to the Higher Regional Court in Cologne, Germany, the injunction proceedings ICANN initiated against EPAG, a Germany-based, ICANN-accredited registrar that is part of the Tucows Group. ICANN filed the injunction proceedings seeking assistance in interpreting the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in order to protect the data collected in WHOIS. The most recent GDPR-related announcement entitled “ICANN Request to Preserve WHOIS Data Referred to German Appeal Court” is published here<https://www.icann.org/news/announcement-2-2018-07-19-en>. The associated legal documentation is published here<https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/litigation-icann-v-epag-2018-05-25-en>. Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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HEADS UP!!! IANA Function Review is approaching!
by Katrina Sataki July 20, 2018

July 20, 2018

Dear Colleagues: As you know, since 1 October 2016, PTI is performing the IANA Naming Functions, and the way these Functions are performed is extremely important to us, the ccTLD community. As you also may know, the ICANN Bylaws require that the ICANN Board cause a periodic review of PTI's performance of the IANA naming function (IFR). The first such review has to be convened no later than 1 October 2018. Each of these IFRs is conducted by a Review Team (IFRT). The composition of the review team, which is specified by the Bylaws, includes, among others: (a) Two representatives appointed by the ccNSO from its ccTLD registry operator representatives (ccNSO members); (b) One non-ccNSO ccTLD representative who is associated with a ccTLD registry operator that is not a representative of the ccNSO, appointed by the ccNSO. These three members from the ccTLD community are to be appointed in accordance with the rules and procedures of the ccNSO, and each member must be from a different ICANN region. In the second half of August, the ccNSO will issue a call for expressions of interest. Among other things, the candidates should have: . Direct experience and knowledge of the IANA naming functions. . Understanding of the purpose of the IFR. . Analytical skills, ability to interpret quantitative and qualitative evidence, and capacity to draw conclusions purely based on evidence. . Excellent communication skills in order to represent ccTLD interests and to keep the ccNSO Council and broader ccTLD community informed on progress. Further, a candidate will be asked to: . Indicate why she or he is interested in becoming involved in the IFR. . Indicate the ccTLD manager with whom the candidate is associated. . Show that she or he is employed or have active backing by the ccTLD manager with whom the candidate is associated. . Demonstrate the support by the ccTLD manager in respect to the required time commitment to participate actively in the IFR. . Indicate whether willing to stand as co-chair. . Commit to abide by the rules of the IFRT and ccNSO guidelines. In order to ensure that interests of ccTLDs are well represented, we will need a pool of qualified volunteers that is as geographically diverse as possible! We also need ccNSO members and non-members to apply! If you meet these criteria and are interested, I would like to encourage you to put your name forward, as soon as the call for expression of interest is out! Meanwhile, get prepared! Please do not hesitate to ask any questions! I will keep you posted! Kind regards, ]{atrina

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Emoji as TLD Study Group update
by Alejandra Reynoso July 19, 2018

July 19, 2018

Dear All Yesterday the Emoji as TLD Study Group had a call, my first call with them *;)* and the agenda was the following: 1. Welcome and Roll Call 2. Introduction new participants 3. Introduction Terms of Reference of Study Group (Included) 4. Chair(s) Nomination 5. Rules of Engagement 6. What to address first? Work plan, end product. 7. AOB 8. Next meeting(s) While reviewing the Terms of Reference of the Study Group ( https://ccnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/field-attached/emoji-sld-purpos…) it was noted that in its closure says: "The study group closes at the end of the ccNSO Council meeting the final report has been discussed by the ccNSO Council, but no later than the ccNSO Council meeting at the ICANN meeting 63 ( Barcelona, Spain)." Since the work of the Study Group has just started, presenting a final report for ICANN 63 is a very tight deadline, so it is requested to defer it until ICANN 64. On the other hand, chair and co-chair nominations are pending. Will be defined by Monday 23 July. A general overview of what the work plan could look like was discussed and it was agreed that the group will start meeting every two weeks starting on 15 August. Best regards, Alejandra -- [image: Photograph] *Alejandra Reynoso*Investigación & Desarrollo | Dominios .gt *P:* +502 23688565 *E:* alejandra.reynoso(a)cctld.gt 18 Ave. 11 <https://maps.google.com/?q=18+Ave.+11&entry=gmail&source=g>-42 Zona 15, V.H. III. Guatemala, Guatemala www.gt

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Post-ICANN62 Policy Report is now available
by Joke Braeken July 18, 2018

July 18, 2018

Dear all, The Post-ICANN62 Policy Report is now available. Download the report here: https://go.icann.org/post62 This Report captures decisions and outcomes from the Supporting Organizations (SOs) and Advisory Committees (ACs) in Panama City. The report also provides a look ahead and resources to enable sustained engagement on important issues. Thank you. Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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Re: [ccnso-council] Minutes for review: Panama F2F 27 June
by Peter Vergote July 17, 2018

July 17, 2018

Hi Kim, Small side note on my part. Concerning the topic “final report CCWG Accountability” & my question/comment about the process. If I’m not mistaking, Katrina immediately addressed this during the Council meeting and confirmed that members will have to decide on this. Meaning that we probably will have the same procedure as with WS1. Might be useful to add this to the minutes so we have it somewhere documented. Best, Peter From: Ccnso-council <ccnso-council-bounces(a)icann.org> on behalf of Kimberly Carlson <kimberly.carlson(a)icann.org> Date: Tuesday, 17 July 2018 at 16:50 To: "ccnso-council(a)icann.org" <ccnso-council(a)icann.org> Subject: [ccnso-council] Minutes for review: Panama F2F 27 June Dear Councilors, Here are the Panama F2F minutes for review. Thank you, Kim _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Kimberly Carlson ccNSO Support Lead Administrator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers Skype kimberly.carlson.icann www.icann.org Top of Form Bottom of Form

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Minutes for review: Panama F2F 27 June
by Kimberly Carlson July 17, 2018

July 17, 2018

Dear Councilors, Here are the Panama F2F minutes for review. Thank you, Kim _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Kimberly Carlson ccNSO Support Lead Administrator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers Skype kimberly.carlson.icann www.icann.org Top of Form Bottom of Form

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FW: [soac-chairs] CCWG-Accountability WS2 - Approval of final report
by Katrina Sataki July 17, 2018

July 17, 2018

Sorry, I just realised that I haven’t forwarded this to you! Kind regards, ]{atrina From: soac-chairs [mailto:soac-chairs-bounces@icann.org] On Behalf Of Bernard Turcotte Sent: Monday, July 09, 2018 5:19 PM To: soac-chairs(a)icann.org; Accountability Cross Community <accountability-cross-community(a)icann.org> Subject: [soac-chairs] CCWG-Accountability WS2 - Approval of final report CCWG-Accountability WS2 Chartering Organizations, It is with great pleasure that the CCWG-‐Accountability WS2 proposes the attached Final Report for your consideration and approval as a Chartering Organization. This Final Report presents a summary of the work completed by WS2 and its sub-‐groups, a listing of all recommendations as well as the complete report from each sub-‐group (Annexes 1 to 8) and the Implementation Guidance (Annex 9) developed to meet the concerns of the ICANN Board of Directors relative to the four recommendations it identified in its letter of May 14 2018 (due to size considerations we are also including a version of the Final Report without the Annexes). The CCWG-‐Accountability would kindly ask that the Chartering Organizations complete their approval of this Final Report by the conclusion of ICANN 63 which will be held in Barcelona in October 2018. It is important to note that rejecting specific recommendation(s) of the final report would reopen the discussion in the concerned sub-‐group(s) and the WS2 Plenary, which would require restarting the WS2 process to reconsider the concerned recommendation(s) and possibly undertaking a new round of public comments. Currently this would not be possible as there is no budget allocated to continue this phase of WS2. Once the CCWG-‐Accountability Chartering Organizations have approved this Final Report for WS2 according to its Charter, it will be transmitted to the ICANN Board for approval and implementation. During this approval period the CCWG-‐Accountability Co-‐Chairs and sub-‐group Rapporteurs remain available to make presentations on the Final Report and answer any questions you may have. In closing, the CCWG-‐Accountability Co-‐Chairs would like to thank the past Co-Chairs, all the Participants for their sustained contributions to this effort, the Rapporteurs for their outstanding dedication and tireless work in guiding their respective groups to producing the recommendations which will help make ICANN better for all in the years to come. The Co-‐Chairs would also like to recognize the excellent work of the MSSI staff which was highly professional and without whom this would have been impossible. A special thank you to: Past WS2 Co-Chairs: * León “Magic” Felipe Sánchez Ambiá * Mathieu Weill Rapporteurs: * Avri Doria – Staff Accountability * Barbara Wanner - Transparency * Cheryl Langdon-Orr – SO/AC Accountability * Chris Wilson – Transparency * Farzaneh Badii - SO/AC Accountability * Fiona Asonga – Diversity * Greg Shatan – Jurisdiction * Lori Schulman – Good Faith * Michael Karanicolas – Transparency * Niels ten Oever – Human Rights * Rafik Dammak – Diversity * Sébastien Bachollet – Ombuds * Steve DelBianco – SO/AC Accountability MSSI Staff: * Bernard Turcotte * Brenda Brewer * Karen Mulberry * Nathalie Vergnolle * Patrick Dodson * Yvette Guigneaux The CCWG-‐Accountability WS2 Co-‐Chairs Thomas Rickert, Jordan Carter, Tijani Ben Jemaa

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Call for volunteers: ccNSO appointed member of ICANN's NomCom FY 2019
by Kimberly Carlson July 16, 2018

July 16, 2018

Dear all, In accordance with the ccNSO Guideline: Appointment of delegate to the Nominating Committee (http://ccnso.icann.org/workinggroups/appointment-nomcom-delegate-05nov08.pdf) the ccNSO Council is now looking for a volunteer to serve on ICANN's Nominating Committee (NomCom) on behalf of the ccNSO. Candidates may self-nominate. Please note that you are required to be associated with a ccTLD manager. In addition, after being selected, you will need to consent to ICANN processing your personal data for the purpose of serving on the NomCom under ICANN's data protection policy (Terms of Service<https://www.icann.org/privacy/tos>) If you are interested in serving in this position, please, send an email to the ccNSO Secretariat (ccnsosecretariat(a)icann.org<mailto:ccnsosecretariat@icann.org>), and include a short motivation letter why you wish to serve on the NomCom and explain briefly how you meet the selection criteria listed below. Closing date for nomination is Friday 3 August 2018, 17.00 UTC. The list of candidates will be presented to all ccNSO Councillors eligible to vote and who will then take a decision by email vote. Under the 1 October 2016 Bylaws the NomCom is an independent committee tasked with nominating eight members of the Board of Directors and other key positions within ICANN's structure. The 2018 NomCom will select Directors of the ICANN Board, member(s) of the ALAC, member(s)of the GNSO Council, 1 member of the ccNSO Council. More information on the criteria for serving as appointee on the NomCom can be found at the end of this email and on the NomCom itself at: https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/nomcom-2013-12-13-en . On behalf of the ccNSO Secretariat, kind regards, Kimberly Carlson Selection Criteria Specific criteria for selecting a delegate to the NomCom are provided in Article 8, Section 4 of ICANN's Bylaws (https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/governance/bylaws-en/#article8) "Section 4. CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF NOMINATING COMMITTEE DELEGATES Delegates to the ICANN Nominating Committee shall be: 1. Accomplished persons of integrity, objectivity, and intelligence, with reputations for sound judgment and open minds, and with experience and competence with collegial large group decision-making; 2. Persons with wide contacts, broad experience in the Internet community, and a commitment to the success of ICANN; 3. Persons whom the selecting body is confident will consult widely and accept input in carrying out their responsibilities; 4. Persons who are neutral and objective, without any fixed personal commitments to particular individuals, organizations, or commercial objectives in carrying out their Nominating Committee responsibilities; 5. Persons with an understanding of ICANN's mission and the potential impact of ICANN's activities on the broader Internet community who are willing to serve as volunteers, without compensation other than the reimbursement of certain expenses; and 6. Persons who are able to work and communicate in written and spoken English." All FY 2019 NomCom members should be able to attend the first formal meeting of the 2019 NomCom (during or around ICANN 63). Travel and hotel accommodation will be provided. In addition: * NomCom delegates should have a high-level network of contacts essential to candidate recruitment. * The person should be able to join monthly teleconferences (typically 13:00 or 14:00 UTC). Note that the committee's workload will increase significantly during Apr/May/June 2019 when the candidate assessment process will be at its busiest. Conference calls are held more frequently (typically weekly) during this time as well. * The person must be able to attend the NomCom selection meeting in late June 2018. * The person should be willing to work in a large, consensus-oriented committee. The NomCom has its own guideline <https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/2015-guidelines-2014-11-14-en> and procedure <https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/2015-procedures-2014-11-14-en> . These reference documents provide additional information about the work of the NomCom. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Kimberly Carlson ccNSO Support Lead Administrator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers Email Kimberly.Carlson(a)icann.org<mailto:Kimberly.Carlson@icann.org> Skype kimberly.carlson.icann [cid:image001.png@01D243BB.E5949130]

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RSSAC Review: Final Report Now Available
by Joke Braeken July 16, 2018

July 16, 2018

Dear all, Interisle Consulting Group, LLC, the independent examiner performing the second Root Server System Advisory Committee (RSSAC) Review, published its final report. Read the report [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_en_syste…> [PDF, 2.58 MB]. The final report includes an assessment of the RSSAC with eight principal findings and six principal recommendations for improving its operations. The recommendations focus on RSSAC purpose, effectiveness, and accountability. The final report published today considers comments on the draft final report published [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_public-2…> on 1 May 2018, input provided during the public webinar [community.icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__community.icann.org_x_…> on 9 May 2018 and any other feedback Interisle may have received. Next Steps The RSSAC Review Work Party [community.icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__community.icann.org_x_…> (RWP) will prepare a feasibility assessment and initial implementation plan (FAIIP) based on the final report. This will include an analysis of recommendations in the final report for usability and prioritization, provisional budget implications, anticipated resources and the proposed implementation timeline. Interisle and the RWP respectively will then present the final report and the FAIIP to the ICANN Board's Organizational Effectiveness Committee (OEC). The OEC will make a recommendation to the Board on next steps. Background An independent review of the RSSAC is mandated by ICANN's Bylaws [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_resource…> and is part of ICANN's commitment to its own evolution and improvement, accountability and transparency. Interisle was selected to perform the review and began its work in September 2017 [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_news_ann…>. The purpose of the RSSAC review, according to the Bylaws, is to determine (i) whether the RSSAC has a continuing purpose in the ICANN structure, (ii) if so, whether any change in structure or operations is desirable to improve its effectiveness and (iii) whether the RSSAC is accountable to its constituencies, stakeholder groups, organizations and other stakeholders. The review also includes an assessment of the implementation state of RSSAC's prior review [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_en_syste…> [PDF, 234 KB]. Additional Resources * Visit the RSSAC Review wiki [community.icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__community.icann.org_x_…> and the RSSAC Review page on ICANN.org [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_resource…> for more information and resources related to the review. * Visit the RSSAC page on ICANN.org [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_groups_r…> to learn more about the RSSAC. Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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ICANN Board of Directors Submits Comments Regarding NTIA's Notice of Inquiry on International Internet Policy Priorities
by Joke Braeken July 16, 2018

July 16, 2018

Dear all, The Board of Directors of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) submitted comments [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_en_syste…> [PDF, 320 KB] today in response to the United States Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Notice of Inquiry [federalregister.gov]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.federalregister.go…> (NOI) on International Internet Policy Priorities. In its comments, ICANN's Board of Directors highlighted the success of the multistakeholder model and enhancements made to the organization's accountability mechanisms during the IANA stewardship transition. The comments also pointed to the high customer satisfaction levels [icann.org]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_news_ann…> delivered by the operator of the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) functions, Public Technical Identifiers (PTI). For more information about the NTIA's NOI, please visit https://www.ntia.doc.gov/federal-register-notice/2018/notice-inquiry-intern… [ntia.doc.gov]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.ntia.doc.gov_feder…>. Read more: https://www.icann.org/news/announcement-2018-07-13-en Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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outcome of the Council Selection Process for membership of the CSC
by Joke Braeken July 16, 2018

July 16, 2018

Dear all, This is to inform you about the outcome of the Council Selection Process for membership of the CSC, which closed Friday 13 July 2018 (23:59 UTC). The applicants were (in alphabetical order): * Brett Carr * Juhani Juselius In the table below, you will be able to find an overview of the ballot numbers, their date of receipt and the order of preference as listed by the individual council members. 14 councillors submitted their preference before the 13 July (23:59 UTC) deadline. ballot number date receipt ballot JUHANI JUSELIUS (.fi) BRETT CARR (.uk) 1 10 July 2018 2 1 2 10 July 2018 2 1 3 10 July 2018 1 2 4 11 July 2018 2 1 5 11 July 2018 1 2 6 12 July 2018 2 1 7 12 July 2018 1 2 8 12 July 2018 1 2 9 12 July 2018 1 2 10 12 July 2018 1 2 11 13 July 2018 2 1 12 13 July 2018 1 2 13 13 July 2018 1 2 14 13 July 2018 2 1 The candidate with the most supportive votes: * Brett Carr Next Steps: Coordination ccNSO Council and RySG According to the charter of the CSC the ccNSO and Registry Stakeholder Group of the GNSO (RySG) need to coordinate their selection of members on the CSC, with an eye on the skill set and, to the extent possible, Geographic diversity of the members (representatives of ccTLD and gTLD) on the CSC. The ccNSO Council mandated a selection committee to undertake this coordination. Final selection of the ccNSO appointed member will occur after consultation with the RySG. Members of the council CSC selection committee: Katrina Sataki Margarita Valdes Pablo Rodriguez Hiro Hotta Souleymane Oumtanaga Jian Zhang Background The ccNSO Council has launched the call for Expression of Interest for membership of the Customer Standing Committee (CSC) in accordance with the ccNSO Guideline: ccNSO Actions Respecting the Customer Standing Committee (http://ccnso.icann.org/workinggroups/guidelines-ccnso-csc-16jun16-en.pdf)<http://ccnso.icann.org/workinggroups/guidelines-ccnso-csc-16jun16-en.pdf%29>.The call for Expression of Interest was open from 18 June 2018 and closed Friday 6 July 2018, 17.00 UTC. https://ccnso.icann.org/en/announcements/announcement-18jun18-en After receipt of the applications, the documents were transmitted to the ccNSO Councillors eligible to select the members of the CSC. At closure of the application window (6 July 2018, 17.00 UTC), two (2) applications were received. The Councillors selected and listed the candidates in order of preference and mailed them to Joke Braeken. The selection procedure closed on Friday 13 July 2018 (23:59 UTC). Best regards, Joke Braeken ccNSO Policy Advisor joke.braeken(a)icann.org<mailto:joke.braeken@icann.org> Follow @ccNSO on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccNSO Follow the ccNSO on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccnso/ http://ccnso.icann.org

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OPINION NEEDED: Initial Report of the GNSO's New gTLD Subsequent Procedures Working Group
by Katrina Sataki July 13, 2018

July 13, 2018

Dear all, As you will have noticed, the GNSO's New gTLD Subsequent Procedures Working Group has produced its Initial Report, which includes material from the full Working Group and Work Tracks 1-4. This Report has been published for public comments on 3 July 2018 and closes on 5 September 2018. Based on my initial read of the report and as suggested by Annebeth, I propose that we start working on a Council Statement to be submitted before 5 September 2018. The statement should address at least the following topics: - Use of 2-character Single Letter, Single Digit Combinations as gTLD strings, - Proposals and additional work with respect to IDN gTLDs, - Confusing similarity review under gTLD process. If you agree, I will ask staff together with individual Councillors (any volunteers?) to prepare initial analysis of the proposals contained in the report. We could discuss the draft at our August meeting. I will reach out to individual Councillors to assist in the process. Annebeth sent me an email sharing her concerns about the use of 2-character Single Letter, Single Digit Combinations as gTLD string. One of the topics in the report is around current restrictions on the use of certain strings (Reserved Names, section 2.7.1 of the Initial Report) in the first round of new gTLDs. Potentially relevant questions of the WG for the ccTLD community and ccNSO, relate to the reservation of the use of 2-character strings at the top level consisting of Single Letter, Single Digit Combinations. It is noted in the report that the policy recommendations allowed for this type of TLD; however, it was disallowed in the Applicant Guidebook, as were any TLDs that contained digits. During the deliberations of the WG there was some support for allowing this type of TLDs, in the absence of technical issues, though no agreement was reached. In the report the following questions were raised: "Should the reservation of those strings be removed? Why or why not? Do you believe that any additional analysis is needed to ensure that these types of strings will not pose harm or risk to security and stability? Please explain." Given the risk of confusing similarity between country codes and single character - single digit combination (for example .lv and .1v, .it and .1t, .8U and .BU, .CO/co and .C0/c0, etc.), I suggest we respond and provide input on this specific item. The suggestion could be that given the close relation with two-letter code-elements and confusing similarity issues involved either current reservation is maintained or, alternatively, further discussed under Work Track 5. Second area to look into further relates to IDN (g)TLDs (section 2.7.5 of the Initial Report) and the proposals and questions contained in the report. Again this will most likely touch upon and may create overlaps with the Fast Track rules and proposed IDN ccTLD policy. Topics that needed to be addressed by both the GNSO and ccNSO in this area are: - Use of single and two character IDNs. In case of the Fast Track or IDN ccTLD overall policy, the single or two character string needs to be a meaningful representation of the name of the country or territory. - Development and impact of IDN variant management framework and related work, which is relevant for both the new gTLDs and IDN ccTLDs. Finally, the third area that may benefit from our input to the proposals and questions concerns String Similarity Evaluations (section 2.7.4). As you (and some of you more than others) will recall, the ccNSO has gained considerable experience with these issues and has worked a lot on refining the method of confusing similarity evaluation under the Fast Track process. We will need to revisit it again when we review and update the proposed overall IDN ccTLD policy. One of the issues might be increasing divergence between the methods and standard and criteria used. I do not know whether this is a good thing or a bad thing, but in my view we definitely need to address it. What are your thoughts? Anything else we should look into? Thank you! Kind regards, ]{atrina

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