Dear Alejandra,
I am writing to inform the ccNSO of the progress made regarding the Board’s consideration of the proposed policy recommendations for the (de-)selection of IDN ccTLD strings and related variants (ccPDP4 IDNs) and to request clarification and confirmation on several points identified during the implementation feasibility assessment.
As you know, the Board Caucus was formed in June 2024 with three objectives:
(i) To evaluate the proposed policy for the (de-)selection of IDN ccTLD and related variants, and provide recommendations to the Board, including through potential dialogue with the ccNSO Council when needed.
(ii) To provide strategic advice to ICANN org during the implementation phase of the proposed policy.
(iii) To develop a Supplemental Board Statement and engage in subsequent dialogue in the event the Board does not accept the recommendations.
Following the closure of the Public Comment period and the solicitation of GAC advice as mandated by ICANN Bylaws, ICANN staff initiated an in-depth analysis of Part A of the Board Report submitted in June 2024. This analysis is intended to support the assessment of implementation feasibility and ensure that ICANN’s understanding and interpretation of the policy recommendations aligns with the ccNSO’s intent. As part of this work, four (4) areas were identified where additional information from the ccNSO would be beneficial to finalize the feasibility assessment for implementing the proposed policy.
The additional information is requested using two types of questions:
- Requests for Confirmation: The purpose of these requests is to seek confirmation from the ccNSO that ICANN’s understanding and/or interpretation of a specific section is correct and aligns with what the ccNSO intended.
- Requests for Clarification: The purpose of these requests is to seek further information or clarification from the ccNSO on a specific topic that is not clear from the language of the Policy.
The attached document sets out the questions identified during the process and organized into columns as follows:
· Column A: Request number (1 through 4)
· Column B: Topic
· Column C: Relevant section in the Board Report
· Column D: Request
· Column E: Open space for ccNSO comments
We understand that the ccNSO may require time to respond fully. Based on previous experience with the ccPDP3 Review Mechanism, we believe that discussing these points may help ensure a clear and shared understanding of the ccNSO’s intent and objectives for the ccPDP4 IDN ccTLD Policy.
Should the ccNSO have any questions on this matter in the interim, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kindest regards,
Patricio Poblete, Chair Board Caucus IDNccPDP4