January 2026 - council - lists.icann.org

Motion - DNS Abuse PDP1 Charter
by jen＠dot.asia Jan. 7, 2026

Jan. 7, 2026

Dear All, Please find attached the Motion for the DNS Abuse PDP1 Charter. Please note that the Charter Drafting small team is currently resolving editorial comments on the charter, and the current linked charter represents the clean version received by the 23:59 UTC deadline today. When this gets resolved, this will be updated in the link in the motion as well. Wishing all a restful holiday season. Best, Jen

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Council to ask the Board to Non-Adopt all SSAD Recommendations?
by Anne ICANN Jan. 7, 2026

Jan. 7, 2026

Hi Susan, If I understand your email to Council correctly, you are suggesting that Council write to the Board based on the RDRS Standing Commitee Report and advise the Board to non-adopt all SSAD Recommendations. Is that right? If so, my questions about that are: 1. Wouldn't that require a Motion at the Council level rather than just an assumption that if Council accepts the RDRS report (as it did in December) then it will take action based on the report as if it were policy? 2. I'm not familiar with all the SSAD Recommendations. Is a wholesale rejection of all of these policy Recommendations advisable? Should any be examined individually or do we think the RDRS Standing Committee already did that individual analysis? (Seb is copied.) 3. I understand that the idea would be for GNSO Council to commence the Supplemental Recommendation Process under the ByLaws which would include the learnings from the RDRS Standing Committee as well as the Public Comments report on RDRS. Is there a question whether or not this requires a small team at Council? That seems likely and it would appear that Seb's involvement would be helpful here. It strikes me that the above questions may be appropriate as a discussion item at the January Council meeting or at SPS but I'm open to your recommended approach. Thank you, Anne Anne Aikman-Scalese GNSO Councilor NomCom Non-Voting 2022-2026 anneicanngnso(a)gmail.com

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GNSO Council Portfolio Management Tool Suite - 15 January 2026 Meeting
by Steve Chan Jan. 6, 2026

Jan. 6, 2026

Dear all, Please see links below to the latest version of the GNSO Council’s Portfolio Management Tool Suite for the meeting on 15 January 2026. Agenda: * https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/kIAtJ Motions: * https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/QYA0J Links to the Program Suite: * Action/Decision Radar (ADR): https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/cAyfBg [icann-community.atlassian.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/cAy…> * Project List (PL): https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/ZAyfBg [icann-community.atlassian.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/ZAy…> * Action Items (AIs): https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/64OeBg [icann-community.atlassian.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/64O…> * Council Small Teams (CSTs): https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/JS6fBg [icann-community.atlassian.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/JS6…> Key Program Suite Structural Changes for this Period: * None for this period. Please let staff know if you have any questions. Best, Steve Steven Chan  VP, Policy Development Support & GNSO Relations Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) 12025 Waterfront Drive, Suite 300 Los Angeles, CA 90094-2536  Email: steve.chan(a)icann.org<mailto:steve.chan@icann.org> Mobile: +1.310.339.4410

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Proposed Agenda | GNSO Council | Thursday, 15 January 2026
by Terri Agnew Jan. 5, 2026

Jan. 5, 2026

Dear all, Please find below the agenda for the 15 January 2026 GNSO Council meeting at 05:00 UTC. This will be posted on the agenda wiki page<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/kIAtJ> shortly. Thank you. Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO ********** GNSO Council Agenda 15 January 2026 Please note that all documents referenced in the agenda have been gathered on a Wiki page for convenience and easier access: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYBPJ This agenda was established according to the GNSO Operating Procedures<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/file/field-file-attach/op-proced…> v3.5, updated on 15 March 2023. For convenience: * An excerpt of the ICANN Bylaws defining the voting thresholds is provided in Appendix 1 at the end of this agenda. * An excerpt from the Council Operating Procedures defining the absentee voting procedures is provided in Appendix 2 at the end of this agenda. GNSO Council meeting on Thursday, 15 January 2026 at 05:00 UTC: https://tinyurl.com/24b6dkjb 21:00 Los Angeles (Wednesday); 00:00 Washington DC; 05:00 London; 06:00 Paris; 08:00 Moscow; 16:00 Melbourne GNSO Council Meeting Remote Participation: <https://icann.zoom.us/j/91048235847?pwd=bmEHjk0uYT3sR2DIoE0c0yw4HKbM6O.1> https://icann.zoom.us/j/92983839529?pwd=DyyxXAO3IN-_JiujB6dHDRVzkll77e1YNB0… Councilors should notify the GNSO Secretariat in advance if they will not be able to attend and/or need a dial out call. ___________________________________ Item 1: Administrative Matters (5 minutes) 1.1 - Roll Call 1.2 - Updates to Statements of Interest 1.3 - Review / Amend Agenda 1.4 - Note the status of minutes for the previous Council meetings per the GNSO Operating Procedures: Minutes<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2025/minutes/minutes-gnso…> of the GNSO Council Meeting on 13 November 2025 were posted on 27 November 2025. Minutes <https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2025/minutes/minutes-gnso…> of the GNSO Council Meeting on 11 December 2025 were posted on 05 January 2026. Item 2: Opening Remarks / Review of Projects & Action List (5 minutes) 2.1 - Review focus areas and provide updates on specific key themes / topics, to include review of Projects List<https://gnso.icann.org/en/council/project> and Action Item List. <https://community.icann.org/x/RgZlAg> Item 3: COUNCIL VOTE - First Policy Development Process (PDP) for DNS Abuse Mitigation Charter (20 minutes) During its meeting<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/gnsocouncilmeetings/pages…> on <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/gac.icann.org/contentMigrated/gac-follow…> 11 December 2025, the GNSO Council passed a motion<https://gnso.icann.org/en/council/resolutions/2020-current#202512> to initiate two (2) PDPs on DNS Abuse Mitigation. The Council also agreed to form a dedicated Charter Drafting Team to consider the draft charter from the Final Issue Report and propose updates based on the Council’s discussion. Relevant updates to the charter were made through consensus of the Charter Drafting Team including: (i) updates to the Charter Questions; (ii) updates to the language on Human Rights considerations; (iii) adjusting the membership structure from a “Representative + Open Model” to a "Representative Model"; (iv) adjusting the seat allocation numbers by group for the Representative WG Model; and (v) adding allocatable seats including Members, Participants and Alternates Here, the Council will vote on the charter for DNS Abuse Mitigation – PDP 1 on Associated Domain Checks. 3.1 - Presentation of motion<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/gnsocouncilmeetings/pages…> (Jennifer Chung, GNSO Vice-Chair) 3.2 - Council Discussion 3.3 - Council vote (voting threshold: an affirmative vote of more than one-third (1/3) of each House or more than two-thirds (2/3) of one House) Item 4: COUNCIL VOTE - Council Guidance for the Implementation Review Team (IRT) on Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs) and International Nongovernmental Organizations (INGOs) on Curative Rights (25 minutes) The IGOs and INGOs Curative Rights IRT has recently discussed a question of policy language interpretation and has requested the guidance of the Council. Specifically, Recommendations 3 and 4 of the Final Report on IGOs and INGOs on Curative Rights<https://itp.cdn.icann.org/en/files/generic-names-supporting-organization-co…> state that the new arbitral proceeding may be initiated by the registrant within 10 days after a final UDRP decision or URS Appeal Determination, or within 10 days following a court’s refusal to hear the merits of a related case due to IGO immunity. This timeline mirrors the timelines for traditional UDRP and URS proceedings. ICANN org, in its role as the implementer of these policy recommendations, has raised the question as to how the Final Report language should be interpreted insofar as the timing/circumstances under which this new arbitral proceeding may be initiated arise. IRT members have expressed the view that, though the Final Report may be somewhat ambiguous on this question/timing path, the spirit of the recommendations would be best achieved by permitting this new arbitral proceeding to be initiated (by agreement of the parties) at any time after a UDRP or URS proceeding is filed by an IGO. Here, the Council will vote on proposed guidance to send to the IRT on IGO-INGO Curative Rights. 4.1 - Presentation of motion<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/gnsocouncilmeetings/pages…> (Damon Ashcraft, GNSO Council Liaison to the IRT on IGO-INGO Curative Rights) 4.2 - Council Discussion 4.3 - Council vote (voting threshold: simple majority) Item 5: COUNCIL DISCUSSION - Standing Committee on Continuous Improvement (SCCI) Policy Status Report (PSR) Final Report (15 minutes) The Policy & Implementation (P&I) Working Group (WG) was established as a result of implementation-related issues concerning the Next Generic Top-Level (gTLD) Program. This WG proposed three new processes, as well as implementation recommendations and principles. In June 2015, the Council adopted the Policy and Implementation Working Group Final Report<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/filefield_47703/policy-implement…>, followed by ICANN Board approval in September 2015. The recommendations resulted in the creation of the following processes: * the GNSO Expedited Policy Development Process (EPDP)<https://www.icann.org/en/governance/bylaws#annexA1> * the GNSO Guidance Process (GGP)<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/file/field-file-attach/annex-5-g…>, and * the GNSO Input Process (GIP)<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/file/field-file-attach/annex-3-i…> The recommendations also resulted in implementation related outputs that are out of scope for this report. When the Council adopted the Final Report, it committed to reviewing the effectiveness of the new processes no later than five years after their successful implementation. The Policy & Implementation (P&I) Policy Status Report (PSR)<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2025/correspondence/psr-t…>, prepared by ICANN’s Global Domains and Strategy (GDS) function, serves as the review envisioned by the Council. The Standing Committee on Continuous Improvement (SCCI), where its objective is to allow for execution of continuous improvement related projects that are focused on the GNSO’s structural, procedural, and process improvements to the Policy Development Process (PDP), was assigned to review the PSR and consider both the analysis conducted and the potential changes suggested. The SCCI systematically reviewed the analysis and proposed three (3) recommendations through its Final Report,<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2025/draft/final-report-s…> which propose courses of action for each of the three processes - EPDP, GGP, and GIP. 5.1 - Introduction of Topic (Manju Chen, Chair of SCCI) 5.2 - Council Discussion 5.3 - Next Steps Item 6: Discussion on Upcoming Board-Council Dialogue on SSAD Recommendations (25 minutes) In June 2023, the GNSO Council tasked a dedicated Standing Committee to review the Registration Data Request Service (RDRS). Specifically, the Council tasked the Standing Committee to analyze the data from the RDRS and consider: * Assignment #1. Trends that can be identified over a month-by-month period; * Assignment #2. Possible technical updates that should be considered to RDRS and/or related messaging and promotion (recognizing that the RDRS will only be running for a two-year period and limited resources may be available to implement such updates); * Assignment #3. Specific lessons learned that should be factored into the consideration of how to proceed with the SSAD recommendations; * Assignment #4. Suggestions to the Council for a proposed recommendation(s) to the ICANN Board in relation to the consideration of the SSAD recommendations. The Standing Committee began reviewing monthly data in January 2024 and distilled its findings into its Findings Report, which was published for public comment on 19 August 2025<https://www.icann.org/en/announcements/details/icann-generic-names-supporti…>. Following its consideration of the public comments received, the RDRS Standing Committee delivered its updated Findings Report<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/PjLlBg>, which contains six recommendations for the Council’s consideration. The Council voted to accept<https://gnso.icann.org/en/council/resolutions/2020-current#202512> the Registration Data Request Service (RDRS) Standing Committee Findings Report. With respect to Assignment #4, “Suggestions to the Council for a proposed recommendation(s) to the ICANN Board in relation to the consideration of the SSAD recommendations”, the Standing Committee produced Recommendation 5, which provides, in part, “the SC recommends that the Board should consider the 18 recommendations together as one package. The SC further recommends that when the GNSO Council and ICANN Board engage in a dialogue, the Council should recommend that the ICANN board reject the SSAD recommendations (as a package) and send them back to the GNSO Council for further action and Supplemental Recommendation.” Here, the Council, who previously voted to accept<https://gnso.icann.org/en/council/resolutions/2020-current#202512> the Standing Committee’s report in December, will discuss the Standing Committee’s recommendation and align on a unified message, where possible, in preparation for the upcoming dialogue with the Board. 6.1 - Introduction of Topic (Susan Payne, GNSO Chair) 6.2 - Council Discussion 6.3 - Next Steps Item 7: Update of Cross-Community Group on Review of Reviews (20 minutes) During its meeting on 14 August 2025<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/gnsocouncilmeetings/pages…>, the Council voted to approve the charter<https://www.icann.org/en/system/files/correspondence/reynoso-to-sinha-30jul…> for a Cross Community Group (CCG) on the Review of Reviews. The charter provides that the purpose of the CCG is to manage a fundamental evaluation of the following reviews set out in the ICANN Bylaws, as a whole system, including their implementation, and propose a refreshed system of reviews. The reviews and their past outcomes to be evaluated include: * Periodic review of ICANN structure and operations (section 4.4), * Annual Review (section 4.5) and * Specific Reviews (section 4.6); and * Previously conducted Reviews; and * Reviews that have previously been formally recommended. The CCG will not evaluate the Continuous Improvement Program itself, but will take account of its work and will consider how it can best contribute to the broader system of reviews. This evaluation will exclude the following: * Review of the Independent Review Process (IRP) (section 4.3) * Review of the Reconsideration Request (section 4.2) * Review of the Community Mediation (section 4.7) * Review of the Empowered Community processes related to the Empowered Community powers as listed in section 6.2 (for example the Rejection Action and Approval Action Processes, and Board Recall and Director Removal Processes) * Reviews established through the IANA Stewardship Transition: * the Customer Standing Committee Effectiveness Review (section 17.3), and * the IANA Functions Review (section 18) including the Special IANA Function Review (section 18.12). Here, the GNSO-appointed representatives to the CCG will provide an update on its progress to date. 7.1 - Introduction of Topic (Sophie Hey and Osvaldo Novoa, GNSO Reps from CCG) 7.2 - Council Discussion 7.3 - Next Steps Item 8: Any other business (5 minutes) 8.1 - Update on ICANN85 planning and Draft GNSO Schedule 8.2 - Final SPS Reminder 8.3 - Latin Diacritics PDP Liaison _______________________________ Appendix 1: GNSO Council Voting Thresholds (ICANN Bylaws, Article 11, Section 11.3(i)) See https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/governance/bylaws-en/#article11. Appendix 2: GNSO Council Absentee Voting Procedures (GNSO Operating Procedures, Section 4.4) See https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/file/field-file-attach/op-proced… References for Coordinated Universal Time of 05:00 UTC Local time between November and March in the NORTHERN hemisphere See https://www.timeanddate.com/time/change/ for Dates for Daylight Saving Time and Clock Changes ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- California, USA (PST) UTC-8 21:00 (Wednesday) San José, Costa Rica (CST) UTC-6 23:00 (Wednesday) New York/Washington DC, USA (EST) UTC-5 00:00 Buenos Aires, Argentina (ART) UTC-3 02:00 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (WAT) UTC+1 06:00 Paris, France (CET) UTC+1 06:00 Moscow, Russia (MSK) UTC+3 08:00 Singapore (SGT) UTC+8 13:00 Melbourne, Australia (AEDT) UTC+11 16:00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- For other places see http://www.timeanddate.com<http://www.timeanddate.com/> and https://tinyurl.com/24b6dkjb

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Meeting Invitation | GNSO Council meeting | Thursday, 15 January 2026
by Terri Agnew Jan. 5, 2026

Jan. 5, 2026

Dear all, The GNSO Council meeting is scheduled on Thursday, 15 January 2026 at 05:00 UTC for 2 hours. Before joining the call: Please be sure you have read the Expected Standards of Behavior <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_resource…> , ICANN Community Anti-Harassment Policy<https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/community-anti-harassment-policy-2017…> and, the Community Participant Code of Conduct Concerning Statement of Interest<https://www.icann.org/en/system/files/files/adopted-icann-community-partici…> Visit the Wiki Agenda page: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/kIAtJ Check your time zone: https://tinyurl.com/24b6dkjb Councilors should notify the GNSO Secretariat in advance if they will not be able to attend and/or need a dial out call, gnso-secs(a)icann.org<mailto:gnso-secs@icann.org> Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://icann.zoom.us/j/92983839529?pwd=DyyxXAO3IN-_JiujB6dHDRVzkll77e1YNB0… Passcode:9gj@q?GLfL Phone one-tap: +19294362866,,92983839529#,,,,*8666091466# US (New York) +12532158782,,92983839529#,,,,*8666091466# US (Tacoma) If joining Zoom via Zoom App the following will be required: Webinar ID: 929 8383 9529 Passcode: 8666091466 If you are joining via audio only: International numbers available: https://icann.zoom.us/u/abQwxX7jW0 Observers are welcome to join, they will be in a read-only and listen-only mode. Please note that all documents<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYBPJ> referenced in the agenda will be gathered on a Wiki page for convenient and easy access. Thank you. Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO

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Alerting | Phishing on GNSO Council mailing list | RE-VALIDATE PASSWORD..
by Terri Agnew Jan. 5, 2026

Jan. 5, 2026

Dear GNSO Council, We wanted to share we have reported the RE-VALIDATE PASSWORD.. phishing emails on the GNSO Council mailing list received on 03 January 2026. Please do not click on that link or submit any info. [cid:image001.png@01DC7E34.B011D4B0] Thank you. Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO

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FYI | Re: [Ext] NEW: Celebrating Our Achievements in 2025
by Terri Agnew Jan. 5, 2026

Jan. 5, 2026

Happy New Year! [https://danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/on.jsp?ca=66fc839a-52c6-47d7-bf07-94b456409a4c…] Monday, 05 January 2026 ICANN Community Digest [https://files.constantcontact.com/304b3fd3501/31f30ab5-1445-45c3-aef7-c0ea4…] The Digest will resume publication in the new year on 05 January 2026. Click here to learn more about the New gTLD Program [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Applicant Support Program [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Registry Service Provider Evaluation Program [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> The ICANN organization Policy Development Support function publishes this twice-weekly digest to help ICANN community groups track requests and follow updates. Do you have any ideas for improving the ICANN Community Digest? Write to us at policyinfo(a)icann.org!<mailto:policyinfo@icann.org> Table of Contents ICANN85 · Register now · NEXT WEEK: ICANN85 Community Childcare Grants Program: Apply Now Information Sharing · NEW: Last Call: Nominations for the ICANN Community Excellence Award · NEW: Celebrating Our Achievements in 2025 · NEW: Cheers to a Successful Year at ICANN · NEW: A Year of Progress on the Path to Opening the 2026 Round of New gTLDs · NEW: ICANN Request for Information: Event Sponsorship Management · NEW: ICANN Office of Ombuds Seeks Input on Updated Framework and Process · NEW: Registry Service Provider Application Support During ICANN Office Closure Webinars · NEXT WEEK: Register to Attend: Informational Webinar on ICANN's and PTI’s Draft FY27 Plans Next Round · ICANN Materials Provide Prospective New gTLD Applicants Clarity on Key Topics · Next Round Champions Toolkit Available in the Six ICANN Languages · Call for ASP Mentors 🚨 Action Items 🚨 · CLOSES THURSDAY: ICANN Community Excellence Award: Now Accepting Nominations · CLOSES FRIDAY: Call for Applications: NextGen@ICANN86 · ICANN Request for Proposal: New gTLD Program: 2026 Round Background Screening Services · Invitation to Provide Input for the 2026 ICANN Nominating Committee Cycle · ICANN Request for Proposal: 2026 Round Safeguard Assessment · Call for Nominations for ICANN Fellowship Program Mentors · ICANN Request for Proposal: Evaluator Panels for String Similarity and Variant Strings for the new gTLD Program: 2026 Round · Apply Now for ICANN and PTI Leadership Positions · ICANNWiki Seeking Volunteers Public Comment · NEW: ICANN Office of Ombuds Framework and Process · Proposed GNSO Process for ICANN Board to Reverse Adoption of GNSO Policy Recs · String Similarity Evaluation Guidelines for New gTLD Program: 2026 Round · Proposed Next Round Base gTLD Registry Agreement - Spec 14 (Variant TLDs) · Proposed Updates to the Trademark Clearinghouse Requirements · ICANN FY27–31 Operating & Financial Plan, ICANN/IANA FY27 Op Plans & Budgets · Draft PTI FY27 Operating Plan and Budget Events · These events occur in January 2026. ICANN85 Register now [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> NEXT WEEK: ICANN85 Community Childcare Grants Program: Apply Now The program facilitates the in-person participation of community members with children who are 12 years old or younger at ICANN Public Meetings and eligible ICANN events. DEADLINE: Friday, 16 January 2026, at 23:59 UTC Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Information Sharing NEW: Last Call: Nominations for the ICANN Community Excellence Award The award recipient(s) will be announced in March 2026 at ICANN85 in Mumbai, India. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> NEW: Celebrating Our Achievements in 2025 On behalf of the Board, I am grateful to your commitment to preserving a secure, stable, and interoperable Internet. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> NEW: Cheers to a Successful Year at ICANN We saw successes in promoting a more multilingual Internet by organizing the third annual Universal Acceptance Day, in combating Domain Name System Abuse through enforcing the contract amendments, and in many other areas. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> NEW: A Year of Progress on the Path to Opening the 2026 Round of New gTLDs In some ways, the real work still lies ahead of us, as we move from "standing up" the program to actually running it, processing applications, and ultimately, onboarding new gTLD registries. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> NEW: ICANN Request for Information: Event Sponsorship Management Potential providers may respond to this RFI to indicate their interest in this initiative, and to showcase their capabilities for the full end-to-end sponsorship management services within the sponsorship lifecycle. DEADLINE: 23 January 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> NEW: ICANN Office of Ombuds Seeks Input on Updated Framework and Process The ICANN Ombuds is revising the framework to reflect the evolution of the Ombuds Office, to address emerging needs in the ICANN community, clarify process, and to further align with good-practice professional standards and processes. Announcement. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Public Comment. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> NEW: Registry Service Provider Application Support During ICANN Office Closure If an RSP applicant encounters any issues, we encourage them to report it using the RSP portal. ICANN staff will address the issues immediately upon our return on 5 January. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Webinars NEXT WEEK: Register to Attend: Informational Webinar on ICANN's and PTI’s Draft FY27 Plans The webinar will provide an overview of the draft plans for ICANN and Public Technical Identifiers (PTI) which will be posted for separate, concurrent Public Comments. The webinar will be presented at two different times, and community members can register for one or both of the sessions: 14 January 2026 at 00:00 UTC Read more and register. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Next Round ICANN Materials Provide Prospective New gTLD Applicants Clarity on Key Topics ICANN org is developing supplemental, complementary materials to aid prospective generic top-level domain (gTLD) applicants in understanding the Next Round application requirements, and how to navigate the application and evaluation processes. Blog [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…>. Key Topic Overview Documents. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Next Round Champions Toolkit Available in the Six ICANN Languages ICANN is working with the community to identify potential Applicant Support Program (ASP) applicants – especially in regions that are currently under-represented in ICANN. If you are interested in helping to raise awareness among your own contacts or communities, please use the materials in the Next Round Champions Toolkit [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…>. To stay up to date on the New gTLD Program: Next Round and ASP, join the mailing list: nextroundinfo(a)icann.org. ASP leads, targets, and ideas can be sent to engagement.newgTLDprogram(a)icann.org<mailto:engagement.newgTLDprogram@icann.org>. Call for ASP Mentors ICANN is seeking volunteer mentors who would like to offer their expertise to supported applicants as part of the ASP in the new gTLD Program: Next Round [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…>. ICANN is looking for mentors who can share insights and experience across ICANN Languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish) to support diverse gTLD applicants. Mentors may play a role in: advising applicants on navigating the gTLD application process and DNS industry; identifying resources; providing guidance; sharing experiences as appropriate; and helping supported applicants navigate the ICANN community and Public Meetings. If you or someone in your network might be interested, please refer to the mentor registration announcement [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> for more information. Questions about the ASP or becoming a supported applicant Mentor can be sent to globalsupport(a)icann.org<mailto:globalsupport@icann.org>. Action Items CLOSES THURSDAY: ICANN Community Excellence Award: Now Accepting Nominations The Community Excellence Award recognizes ICANN community members who have deeply invested in consensus-based solutions and contributed substantively to the ICANN multistakeholder model. DEADLINE: 8 January 2026 at 23:59 UTC Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> CLOSESFRIDAY: Call for Applications: NextGen@ICANN86 ICANN wants to hear from university students living and studying in the European region who are interested in the future of the Internet and participating in the Public Meeting. DEADLINE: 9 January 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> ICANN Request for Proposal: New gTLD Program: 2026 Round Background Screening Services Its purpose is to safeguard registrants and the public interest by ensuring that corporations, organizations, and institutions are in good standing and eligible to operate a gTLD. DEADLINE: 23:59 UTC on 16 January 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Invitation to Provide Input for the 2026 ICANN Nominating Committee Cycle Specifically, it seeks feedback on the guidance and candidate job descriptions provided by the receiving bodies, as well as additional qualities, skills, or considerations that should be prioritized in candidate selection. DEADLINE: 21 January 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> ICANN Request for Proposal: 2026 Round Safeguard Assessment The safeguard assessment provider will determine whether an applied-for string fits into one of the risk-based groups that will require specific safeguard public interest commitments (PICs) as contractual obligations in the 2026 Round registry agreement. DEADLINE: 22 January 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Call for Nominations for ICANN Fellowship Program Mentors Interested SOs/ACs should select their respective Fellowship Program mentor representative to serve for the ICANN87–ICANN89 meetings, and notify ICANN Fellowship Program Manager Siranush Vardanyan via email at siranush.vardanyan(a)icann.org<mailto:siranush.vardanyan@icann.org> no later than 10 February, 2026. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> ICANN Request for Proposal: Evaluator Panels for String Similarity and Variant Strings for the new gTLD Program: 2026 Round The selected provider(s) will also be required to collaborate with ICANN on the development of evaluation guides for the work conducted by the panels, ensuring that the evaluation processes are transparent, consistent, and repeatable across all gTLD applications. DEADLINE: Wednesday 18 February, 23:59 UTC Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Apply Now for ICANN and PTI Leadership Positions The selected individuals will have a unique opportunity to work with accomplished colleagues from around the globe to help shape the policy development and technical coordination of the Internet's unique identifiers. DEADLINE: 18 February 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> ICANNWiki Seeking Volunteers ICANNWiki is seeking volunteers to assist with creating and editing articles and content for the site. Do you want to help? Getting started is as simple as requesting an account [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…>. Then, make sure to read the short content guide [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> to get a feel for what belongs in the wiki. Also, feel free to take a look at some data [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…>source suggestions [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> on where to find reliable data. Happy editing! Public Comment NEW: ICANN Office of Ombuds Framework and Process [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Open for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 23 December 2025 Closed for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 10 February 2025 Proposed GNSO Process for ICANN Board to Reverse Adoption of GNSO Policy Recs [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Submissions Opening Date: Thursday, 20 November 2025 Submissions Closing Date: Thursday, 22 January 2026 String Similarity Evaluation Guidelines for New gTLD Program: 2026 Round [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Submissions Opening Date: Wednesday, 26 November 2025 Submissions Closing Date: Thursday, 22 January 2026 Proposed Next Round Base gTLD Registry Agreement - Spec 14 (Variant TLDs) [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Submissions Opening Date: Wednesday, 10 December 2025 Submissions Closing Date: Tuesday, 27 January 2026 Proposed Updates to the Trademark Clearinghouse Requirements [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Open for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 18 December 2025 Closed for Submissions Date: Thursday, 27 January 2026 ICANN FY27–31 Operating & Financial Plan, ICANN/IANA FY27 Op Plans & Budgets [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Open for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 16 December 2025 Closed for Submissions Date: Thursday, 12 February 2025 Draft PTI FY27 Operating Plan and Budget [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> Open for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 16 December 2025 Closed for Submissions Date: Thursday, 12 February 2025 See upcoming proceedings [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…>. See other public consultations [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…>. Events These events occur in January 2026. To learn more, please visit our community engagement calendar [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…>. · ICANN Webinar: DNS101 · ICANN's Training on Advanced DNS · DNSSEC Workshop Jordan 2026 · PTC'26 · (MN)NUG · ICANN Webinar Series for EMEA: Charting the Path Ahead for ICANN's DNS Abuse Mitigation Efforts Volume 8, Issue 01 | Archive [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…> | Next Issue: Thursday, 08 January 2026 STAY INFORMED: Subscribe here [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001DbaYg3q…>

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LAST REMINDER | Document and Motion deadline | Monday, 05 January 2026 at 23:59 UTC for GNSO Council Meeting 15 January 2026 at 05:00 UTC
by Terri Agnew Jan. 5, 2026

Jan. 5, 2026

Dear all, Reports, motions, and documents for consideration are due no later than (NLT) 10 days in advance (i.e. Monday, 05 January 2026 at 23:59 UTC) for the GNSO Council Meeting on Thursday, 15 January 2026 at 05:00 UTC. Motions should be sent to the Council mailing list by a councilor and will then be posted on the Motions Wiki at: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/QYA0J Thank you. Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO

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Thank you
by Prudence Malinki Jan. 5, 2026

Jan. 5, 2026

Dear GNSO Council, Staff and Team, The sale of the Markmonitor business to Com Laude has officially closed as of a few moments ago. As a result of this, I shall need to step down from my role as RrSG Rep, effective immediately. I wanted to take a few moments to thank you all, it has genuinely been a joy to work alongside you and you have supported, encouraged, and handled all of my questions with great kindness and good nature. I wish Susan and the new leadership of Council all of the very best! Now that I am stepping down, I shall leave as a gift a wonderful position of liaison to one of the most efficient and effective PDPs to date (ok I might be biased here) the LD PDP- which I hope one of you shall kindly take the reins of and lead it to its successful completion. Although gone from Council I shall remain at ICANN meetings, where I hope to still see you all (however I'll miss our dinners)! Thank you again everyone, it really has been a pleasure. Wishing you all the warmest and happiest of New Years. I hope to see you in 2026. Best, Prudence Malinki Head of Industry Relations, Markmonitor Signal: PMalinki.92 T +44 207 433 4869 Time zone: GMT/BST [cid:image001.png@01DC7AA0.00164DD0]

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