February 2026 - council - lists.icann.org

Reminder: Input welcome on GNSO Council agenda for 2026 meetings
by Terri Agnew March 18, 2026

March 18, 2026

Dear councilors, A reminder to all that a Google doc<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/docs.google.com/document/d/1FSNlAHTjbWAz…> is open for all to add their suggestions and comments to the upcoming GNSO Council meeting agendas. This does not have to be in the form of a full agenda item proposal, simple comments and questions are equally welcome! You are welcome to add to the document<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/docs.google.com/document/d/1FSNlAHTjbWAz…> via the comments feature. Thank you! Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO

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Re: Draft letter summarizing recent SSAD dialogue with ICANN Board
by Demetriou, Samantha March 1, 2026

March 1, 2026

Hi Caitlin, Thank you for circulating this draft letter and thanks to Council leadership for drafting. I believe it accurately conveys the discussions Council had with the Board members during our February meeting and conveys the proposed next steps well. I made a few suggestions in the draft for leadership to consider – mostly just wording edits rather than any substantive changes. Thanks, Sam From: Caitlin Tubergen via council <council(a)icann.org> Reply-To: Caitlin Tubergen <caitlin.tubergen(a)icann.org> Date: Monday, February 23, 2026 at 11:00 AM To: "council(a)icann.org" <council(a)icann.org> Subject: [EXTERNAL] [council] Draft letter summarizing recent SSAD dialogue with ICANN Board Caution: This email originated from outside the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Councilors, During the February 2026 GNSO Council meeting, Support Staff captured the following action item re: Next Steps for SSAD Recommendations: Council Leadership to propose a draft letter to send to the Board, summarizing the dialogue and emphasizing the message that the Council, in recommending the Board consider non-adoption of the SSAD recommendations, does not intend to throw any recommendations away, that it will complete the work in a timely manner (e.g., less than one year), and provide brief rationale for why the suggested path is preferable. Council Leadership is proposing this draft letter, which endeavors to include the above points, to be sent to the Board early next week prior to ICANN85: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1c3sgy18x3TR0VjOznwfRJVXns6dvAlHUM92L51B…. Deadline for review: If you have any comments or concerns on the draft, please provide them by Thursday, 26 February. Thank you. Best regards, Caitlin on behalf of Council Leadership

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Proposed Agenda | GNSO Council | Wednesday, 11 March 2026
by Terri Agnew Feb. 27, 2026

Feb. 27, 2026

Dear all, Please find below the agenda for the 11 March 2026 GNSO Council meeting during ICANN85<https://icann85.sched.com/event/2GwmF/gnso-council-meeting> at 13:15 IST (07:45 UTC) This will be posted on the agenda wiki page<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/OAA7J> shortly. Thank you. Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO ********** GNSO Council Agenda 11 March 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/AYBQJ. 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 Wednesday, 11 March 2026 at 13:15 local time (07:45 UTC): https://tinyurl.com/rmxrkwwz 12:45 Los Angeles; 03:45 Washington DC; 07:45 London; 08:45 Paris; 10:45 Moscow; 18:45 Melbourne GNSO Council Meeting Remote Participation: <https://icann.zoom.us/j/91048235847?pwd=bmEHjk0uYT3sR2DIoE0c0yw4HKbM6O.1> (posted to ICANN85 Schedule 24 hours in advance) 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/2026/minutes/minutes-gnso…> of the GNSO Council Meeting on 15 January 2026 were posted on 31 January 2026. Minutes of the GNSO Council Meeting on 12 February 2026 were posted on 03 March 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: Consent Agenda (5 minutes) * Confirm DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP 1 Working Group Chair: Paul McGrady Item 4: COUNCIL UPDATE - Celebrating GNSO Accomplishments since ICANN84 (5 minutes) During its Strategic Planning Session in January 2025, the GNSO Council discussed ideas for highlighting the work of the GNSO to a larger audience. As a starting point, Councilors agreed to highlight the GNSO Council’s accomplishments or milestones between each ICANN meeting during the Council’s public meeting. In the period between ICANN84 and ICANN85, the Council and the groups under its remit accomplished the following milestones: 1. Latin Script Diacritics PDP - Published its Initial Report in January 2026, ahead of schedule, and is currently reviewing public comments prior to publishing its Final Report. 2. DNS Abuse - GNSO Council voted to initiate two PDPs on DNS Abuse Mitigation (PDP 1 and PDP 2), and PDP 1 began meeting here at ICANN85. 3. Standing Committee for Continuous Improvements - Completed its Final Report for the Implementation of the Policy Status Report on Policy and Implementation, and the Council voted to accept the recommendations. 4. Registration Data Request Service Standing Committee (“RDRS SC”) - Published its Updated Findings Report and submitted it to the Council. The Council reviewed and engaged in a dialogue with the ICANN Board to discuss the next steps for SSAD recommendations, based on the Standing Committee’s Recommendation. The Council is preparing additional work on SSAD recommendations after ICANN85. Here, the Council will have a chance to reflect on the progress it has made since ICANN84. 4.1 - Introduction of Topic (Susan Payne, GNSO Chair) 4.2 - Council Discussion 4.3 - Next Steps Item 5: Council Discussion - Update on Proposed Propose to Un-Adopt Approved GNSO Policy Recommendations (20 minutes) In November 2025, the GNSO Council published a proposed process to enable the ICANN Board to reconsider a previously adopted policy recommendation from the GNSO for public comment<https://www.icann.org/en/public-comment/proceeding/proposed-gnso-process-fo…>. The proposal is based on the identification of a procedural gap, specifically the lack of a defined process for the Board to reconsider a previously Board-adopted (but non-implemented) GNSO policy recommendation. The process is proposed to be contained in updates to the GNSO Operating Procedures, specifically updates to the Policy Development Process (PDP) Manual and the GNSO Guidance Process (GGP) Manual. Based on the public comments received, GNSO Support Staff proposed updated text for the PDP and GGP Manuals was circulated to the Council to address public comments and endeavors to strike the right balance of necessary flexibility and appropriate guardrails. Here, the Council will discuss the updated text and agree on next steps. 5.1 - Introduction of Topic (Jennifer Chung, GNSO Council Vice-Chair) 5.2 - Council Discussion 5.3 - Next Steps Item 6: Council Update - Next Steps for SSAD Recommendations (10 minutes) In June 2023, the GNSO Council tasked a dedicated Standing Committee to review the Registration Data Request Service (RDRS) and provide recommendations to the Council regarding, among others, lessons learned from the RDRS pilot and suggestions on a proposed recommendation for the next steps for the Standardized System for Access/Disclosure (SSAD) recommendations. As part of its recommendations to the Council, 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.” The Council discussed this approach during its January meeting and during its Strategic Planning Session and agreed to the Standing Committee’s recommendation, i.e., use of the Supplemental Recommendations procedure. Additionally, the Council discussed this recommendation with members of the ICANN Board Caucus on Data Protection/Privacy during its meeting on 12 February<https://icann.zoom.us/rec/play/4zEat4IE7k4XtVKsO_PZkLRuN0Dow7JIK94ldXy-N2tF…>. Here, the Council will provide a short update on the recent dialogue with the ICANN Board, anticipated Board action at ICANN85, and discuss what can be expected at the upcoming session on GNSO Discussion on Next Steps for SSAD Recommendations<https://icann85.sched.com/event/2Gwoc/gnso-discussion-on-next-steps-for-ssa…>. 6.1 - Introduction of Topic (Susan Payne, GNSO Chair) 6.2 - Council Discussion 6.3 - Next Steps Item 7: Recap of Outcomes from the GNSO Strategic Planning Session (20 minutes) Beginning in 2018, the GNSO Council has held an annual Strategic Planning Session (SPS). The SPS is the Council’s dedicated meeting designed to (i) understand and review the GNSO’s portfolio of work for the coming year, (ii) align on the GNSO’s work priorities for the coming year, (iii) consider whether the GNSO Council has the correct resources and tools to conduct its work as manager of the PDP efficiently, effectively, and comprehensively, and (iv) discuss how to best prepare for emerging and upcoming challenges the Council could face in the coming year and beyond. This year’s SPS was held in Barcelona, Spain on 20-21 January 2025. Here, the Council will review the outcomes of the SPS and discuss next steps. 7.1 - Introduction of Topic (Susan Payne, GNSO Chair) 7.2 - Council Discussion 7.3 - Next Steps Item 8: Proposed GNSO Prioritization Methodology (20 minutes) During the GNSO Council’s second Working Session at ICANN82<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/gnsocouncilmeetings/pages…>, the Council discussed its immediate and longer term pipeline of work, including work that the Council has previously committed to, e.g. Latin Diacritics, RPMs Phase 2, and a list of potential topics the GNSO Council could consider for future PDPs. At the time, the Council suggested that “level of effort” be integrated into the prioritization document, to help provide important context for the prioritization exercise. An updated prioritization document<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2025/draft/gnso-council-p…> was shared with Council on 05 September 2025. Following the Council’s September meeting, Councilors were asked to share the updated prioritization document<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2025/draft/gnso-council-p…> with their respective groups for further feedback and guidance. The Council further discussed this topic during its recent Strategic Planning Session. During that session, the Council agreed that its current priorities include DNS abuse, and next steps for SSAD recommendations. Councilors also noted the current Action Decision Radar is an appropriate tool to assist in objectively assessing future decisions, provided there are built-in flexibility principles as new issues emerge. However, the Council also agreed that the ADR could coexist with a Council prioritization framework, as they serve different functions and accomplish separate things. The Council requested GNSO Support Staff to update the prioritization documents based on this discussion. A further updated prioritization document was shared with the Council, which supported the Council’s discussion during its February meeting. There, the Council agreed that it wished to pursue options to be able to prioritize its work in the future, and a briefing document has been prepared which sets out various potential mechanisms Council might use in order to prioritise its work, for consideration and discussion. Here, the Council will have a chance to discuss and provide feedback on the updated documentation. 8.1 - Introduction of Topic (Jennifer Chung, GNSO Council Vice-Chair) 8.2 - Council Discussion 8.3 - Next Steps Item 9: Follow-up on Accuracy Small Team Recommendation (15 minutes) In 2024, the Council discussed the limitations of both the Accuracy Scoping Team’s recommendations<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2022/correspondence/palag…> and the options<https://lists.icann.org/hyperkitty/list/council@icann.org/thread/XJ7LITVNLL…> proposed by ICANN org, and the Council noted the complexities around this topic. The Council also noted the importance of the topic to the ICANN community, and in an effort to make progress, Council Leadership proposed a new assignment to seek feedback from SG/Cs on how to best move forward in light of the limitations in accessing data for the purposes of measuring accuracy levels. The Council Accuracy Small Team reviewed the feedback to the Council’s assignment and proposed recommendations for the Council’s consideration. Recommendation 3 provides, “The Council Accuracy Small Team recommends the creation of clear and user-friendly educational materials 3 that could be provided before, during, and after domain name registration to assist registrants in understanding (i) the importance of providing and maintaining accurate registration data through the lifecycle of their domain name(s), (ii) how their personal data is processed and protected, and (iii) the consequences of providing inaccurate data or not verifying email/phone under the required timeline. The Small Team does not prescribe how these materials are created, but recommends assembling a diverse and representative group of interested stakeholders to work together on developing the recommended content for the materials.” At the request of the Registrar Stakeholder Group, ICANN org produced a one-page document<https://www.icann.org/en/system/files/files/importance-domain-name-registra…> to highlight the importance of maintaining accurate registration data for registrants that registrars, registrants, and the community can reference. GNSO Support Staff sent<https://lists.icann.org/hyperkitty/list/council@icann.org/thread/TTSQRRAQ2G…> the document to the Council List to gather feedback regarding if this is a helpful starting point for implementing Recommendation 3. Here, the Council will discuss next steps for Recommendation 3. 9.1 - Introduction of Topic (Susan Payne, GNSO Chair) 9.2 - Council Discussion 9.3 - Next Steps Item 10: Open Mic (10 minutes) Here, interested individuals may use this time to address the GNSO Council directly with comments, ideas, and feedback. Comments may be provided virtually via the Zoom room or via the microphone in the meeting room. 10.1 - Introduction of Topic - Susan Payne 10.2 - Open Mic 10.1 - GNSO Chair Election Timeline Announcement Item 11: Any other business (5 minutes) 11.1 - GNSO Chair Election<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/file/field-file-attach/proposed-…> Timeline Announcement _______________________________ 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…

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Due 21 September 2026 | GNSO Chair 2026 Election Timeline
by Terri Agnew Feb. 27, 2026

Feb. 27, 2026

Dear GNSO Council, Please see below the GNSO Chair election timeline for the 2026 GNSO Chair election. We are sharing ahead of the announcement deadline in order to allow for more flexible election scheduling. This will be posted shortly on the GNSO Elections webpage<https://gnso.icann.org/en/council/elections>. GNSO Chair election timeline Deadlines Not Later Than: Activity Commences: Time Available: 27 February 2026 Mid-year ICANN Meeting and/or dependency on new travel deadlines Announce Proposed Procedure and Timeline 1 Day 19 June 2026 (ICANN87 funded traveler name submission deadline) T – 60 Days and/or dependency on new travel deadlines NomCom Selectees Announced 1 Day SG/C New Council Members Announced 1 Day House Nominee Selection 30 Days 21 September 2026 T – 30 Days Houses Submit Nominees 1 Day 3 October 2026 T – 18 Days Candidates Submit Statements 12 Days 18 October 2026 T – 3 Days Candidate Meetings 2 Days 21 October 2026 T Election Held at Annual General Meeting 1 Day 23 October 2026 T + 2 Days Council informs the Board & Community and posts election results on the GNSO website 2 Days Traditionally the timeline is built in keeping with GNSO Operating Procedures guidelines, but with the funded traveler submission deadline now being 120 days prior to the meeting (instead of 90 days), we have had to adapt the first two steps of the timeline. This now fits in with the 19 June 2026 as submission deadline for funded traveler names for ICANN87. The remaining steps however are in keeping with the GNSO Operating Procedures, counting back from the election date. Please let me know if you have any questions. Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO

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Sharing | Re: Detailed Update on Work of Universal Acceptance Expert Working Group (UA EWG) – GNSO Nominee
by Terri Agnew Feb. 27, 2026

Feb. 27, 2026

Dear GNSO Council, Please see attached document and email below from Nitin Walia. ** Further to my earlier update regarding the work of the Universal Acceptance Expert Working Group (UA EWG), I would like to inform the Council that the Draft Guidelines for Advancing UA Adoption are officially open for Public Comment. The Public Comment proceeding is available here: https://www.icann.org/en/public-comment/proceeding/draft-guidelines-for-adv… I encourage Council members and the broader community to review the draft and take this opportunity to provide their feedback. ICANN has specifically invited input on: * Any gaps in the proposed guidelines * Potential challenges in implementation * How these guidelines should be prioritized for implementation These guidelines represent an important operational roadmap toward advancing Universal Acceptance across the ecosystem, including software platforms, email systems, DNS stakeholders, governments, and the broader technical community. For ease of reference, a copy of the Draft Guidelines for Advancing Universal Acceptance (UA) Adoption is also attached. Council members may wish to review the draft and consider providing input during the Public Comment period, particularly on any identified gaps, implementation challenges, or prioritization aspects. The Council may also consider sharing this with their respective Stakeholder Groups and members to enable wider perspectives from across the community. I will continue to keep the Council informed as the next phase of work evolves. I remain grateful for the opportunity to represent the GNSO in the UA Expert Working Group and appreciate the Council’s continued support in advancing Universal Acceptance and IDN-related efforts. Thanks Warm Regards Nitin Walia Director Data Ingenious Global nitin(a)data.in | नितिन(a)xn--c2bd1gb.xn--h2brj9c www.data.in [data.in]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/www.data.in__;!!PtGJab4!83mi6FZsV2W8IZu3c…>-------------------------------------------------------------- The content of this email is confidential and intended only for the recipient specified. If you received this message in error, please delete it and inform the sender. ________________________________ From: Nitin Walia<nitin(a)data.in> MailId : [153189012] To: gnso-secs <gnso-secs(a)icann.org> Cc: gnso-chairs(a)icann.org Subject: Detailed Update on Work of Universal Acceptance Expert Working Group (UA EWG) – GNSO Nominee Date: 04 Feb 2026 08:32:00 pm Dear GNSO Secretariat, I am pleased to share a detailed update on my participation and the progress of work within the Universal Acceptance Expert Working Group (UA EWG) [icann-community.atlassian.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/exter…>, in which I served as the GNSO-appointed nominee, in line with the UAEWG Charter. Background and Timeline: As outlined in the Charter, the UA EWG was established following the ICANN Board’s March 2025 resolution to evaluate and evolve strategies for advancing Universal Acceptance (UA) adoption, aligned with ICANN’s Strategic Plan for FY 2026–2030. The Working Group formally commenced its work in 19 August 2025 and held regular online meetings [icann-community.atlassian.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/exter…> on a weekly or fortnightly basis. The final scheduled meeting of the Working Group took place on Tuesday, 3 February 2026. Scope of Work Addressed: In accordance with the Charter, the UA EWG focused on developing non-policy, advisory guidelines to support ICANN org’s future UA adoption work. Key areas addressed by the group included: Big Tech and Open-Source Ecosystems : Identification of strategies for engaging large technology companies and open-source communities to encourage UA readiness in applications, platforms, and services, including prioritization criteria for engagement. Software Developers and System Administrators : Recommendations on effective mechanisms, platforms, and capacity-building approaches to promote UA adoption in software development practices and system administration, including email systems, IDNs, and EAI support. DNS Industry Engagement : Guidance on how ICANN org may further encourage registries, registrars, resellers, hosting providers, and ISPs to support UA during registration, provisioning, and hosting processes. Public Sector, Academia, and Internet Governance Community : Strategies for outreach to governments, intergovernmental organizations, and academic institutions to promote awareness and adoption of UA, particularly in support of multilingualism, digital inclusion, and citizen-centric digital services. Standards and Technical Collaboration : Consideration of existing and emerging standards relevant to UA adoption, potential areas for ICANN org contribution, and collaboration with standards-setting organizations. Measurement and Progress Tracking : Development of high-level guidance on what aspects of UA adoption should be measured across different stakeholder groups, including approaches to encourage transparency and self-reporting. Risks and Challenges : Identification of remaining gaps, risks, and challenges in achieving broader UA adoption, along with possible mitigation approaches. Deliverables and Current Status: The Working Group has completed its assigned work and reached consensus on a set of Guidelines for Promoting Universal Acceptance Adoption. These recommendations are advisory in nature and are intended to guide ICANN org’s implementation efforts, consistent with the Charter. The draft guidelines are expected to be published shortly for Public Comment. Next Steps: It has been communicated that, following the conclusion of the Public Comment period, the UA EWG may reconvene in April/May 2026, if required, for approximately two to three additional meetings. These meetings would focus on reviewing public input and finalizing the guidelines accordingly before publication. Request: The work of the Universal Acceptance Expert Working Group clearly demonstrates that sustained progress on Universal Acceptance requires continuity, focus, and clear ownership. As other Supporting Organizations and Advisory Committees have already recognized this need through dedicated structures, it is timely for the GNSO to institutionalize its leadership by formally establishing a Universal Acceptance and IDN Working Group. Doing so would ensure that these issues are addressed systematically and sustainably, and embedded at the core of GNSO policy development rather than treated as a time-bound or peripheral initiative. I will continue to keep the Council informed of any further developments, including the publication of the Public Comment proceeding and any reconvening of the Working Group. I would also like to sincerely thank the GNSO Council and its leadership for the trust placed in me and for the opportunity to represent the GNSO as its nominee to the Universal Acceptance Expert Working Group. It has been a privilege to contribute to this important work on behalf of the GNSO, and I deeply appreciate the confidence shown in my ability to engage constructively and effectively in advancing Universal Acceptance and IDN-related efforts. Nitin Walia Director Data Ingenious Global nitin(a)data.in | नितिन(a)xn--c2bd1gb.xn--h2brj9c www.data.in [data.in]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/www.data.in__;!!PtGJab4!83mi6FZsV2W8IZu3c…>-------------------------------------------------------------- The content of this email is confidential and intended only for the recipient specified. If you received this message in error, please delete it and inform the sender. [XGENFOOTER] [-XGENFOOTER] Do not Remove: [HID]20260204203256767[-HID] [Image removed by sender. width=1px][Image removed by sender.][Image removed by sender.]

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LAST REMINDER | Document and Motion deadline | Sunday, 01 March 2026 at 23:59 UTC for GNSO Council Meeting 11 March 2026 at 07:45 UTC (13:15 IST)
by Terri Agnew Feb. 27, 2026

Feb. 27, 2026

Dear all, Reports, motions, and documents for consideration are due no later than (NLT) 10 days in advance (i.e. Sunday, 01 March 2026 at 23:59 UTC) for the GNSO Council Meeting on Wednesday, 11 March 2026 at 07:45 UTC (13:15 IST) 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/pYAtJ Thank you. Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO

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FYI | FW: [Ext] NEW: 2026 Round Progress Continues
by Terri Agnew Feb. 26, 2026

Feb. 26, 2026

FYI [https://danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/on.jsp?ca=90978abe-82f2-4d81-a8fd-ac0039b8eeee…] Thursday, 26 February 2026 ICANN Community Digest [https://files.constantcontact.com/304b3fd3501/31f30ab5-1445-45c3-aef7-c0ea4…] 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=001MVaKZkQ…> 2026 Round Applicant Guidebook [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> 2026 Round Vendor Sourcing Timeline [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> 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 · Prep Week Schedule · ICANN85 Schedule Now Available · PRSP Pre-ICANN85 Briefing · A Preview of the ICANN85 Community Forum · NEW: ICANN85 Policy Outlook Report · NEW: Travel Update for ICANN85 in Mumbai, India · NEW: The Many Layers of Mumbai: 10 Things to Know before ICANN85 Information Sharing · NEW: ICANN Invites Applications for the Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy · NEW: At-Large Community Nominates Justine Chew as Next ICANN Board Director 2026 Round · NEW: 2026 Round Progess Continues · NEW: Ensuring a Secure, User-Friendly gTLD Application System for the 2026 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 🚨 · NEW: ICANN Request for Proposal: Name Collison Temporary Delegation · NEW: Feedback Sought on UA Expert Working Group Guidelines for ICANN org · ICANN Request for Proposal: Geographic Names and Reserved Names Panelss · ICANNWiki Seeking Volunteers Public Comment · NEW: Draft Guidelines for Advancing UA Adoption · Name Collision Procedure Documentation · Fundamental Bylaws Amendments on IANA-Related Reviews and CSC Charter Update · Standard Bylaws Amendment – Transition Article on Specific Reviews · Proposed Root KSK Algorithm Rollover Events · These events occur in February 2026. ICANN85 Register now [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> Prep Week Schedule [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> PRSP Briefing [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> ICANN85 Schedule [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> ICANN85 Policy Outlook Report [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> NEW: Travel Update for ICANN85 in Mumbai, India As we prepare for ICANN85, scheduled for 7–12 March 2026 in Mumbai, India, we are monitoring potential air travel disruptions arising from developments in Iran that might impact the region. India remains a safe host country and ICANN85 will proceed as planned. However, these recent developments may result in travel disruptions such as flight delays or cancellations, affecting some attendees. We are actively monitoring the situation and recommend travelers contact their airline or travel provider directly for the most up-to-date information regarding any changes or disruptions to their journey. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> NEW: The Many Layers of Mumbai: 10 Things to Know Before ICANN85 Mumbai is a city that moves fast, thinks big, and carries centuries of history alongside everyday life. As ICANN85 brings the global Internet community to India's financial and cultural capital – India's largest city, with an estimated population of 22 million – a little local context can go a long way. Here are 10 things worth knowing before you arrive, each offering a glimpse into what makes Mumbai unique. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> Information Sharing NEW: ICANN Invites Applications for the Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy 2026 ICANN announced that the application window for the Regional Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) 2026 will open on Thursday, 5 March 2026, at 00:00 Korea Standard Time (4 March at 15:00 UTC). Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> NEW: At-Large Community Nominates Justine Chew as Next ICANN Board Director ICANN announced that the At-Large community has nominated Justine Chew to serve on ICANN's Board of Directors. She is expected to begin her three-year term at the end of ICANN's next Annual General Meeting, ICANN87, on 22 October 2026. Chew succeeds León Felipe Sánchez Ambía, who has served in this role occupying Seat 15 on ICANN's Board since 3 November 2017. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> 2026 Round NEW: 2026 Round Progress Continues Over the past week, ICANN continued to progress on the roadmap to opening the application window for new generic top-level domains (gTLD). Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> NEW: Ensuring a Secure, User-Friendly gTLD Application System for the 2026 Round As we draw ever closer to opening the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round, the ICANN organization (org) is focused on ensuring that the application management system and processes provide a stable and user-friendly experience. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> 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=001MVaKZkQ…>. Key Topic Overview Documents. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> 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=001MVaKZkQ…>. 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=001MVaKZkQ…>. 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=001MVaKZkQ…> 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 NEW: ICANN Request for Proposal: Name Collison Temporary Delegation ICANN issued a request for proposal (RFP) to identify a service provider to operate the Name Collision Temporary Delegation process for the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> NEW: Feedback Sought on UA Expert Working Group Guidelines for ICANN org ICANN org set up the Universal Acceptance (UA) Expert Working Group (EWG) in August 2025 to develop guidelines for ICANN org's work on advancing UA adoption. The UA EWG is publishing those guidelines for ICANN to identify strategic and practical mechanisms for encouraging UA adoption across a diverse set of stakeholders. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> ICANN Request for Proposal: Geographic Names and Reserved Names Panels Interested providers are invited to submit proposals that ICANN will then evaluate for capability and expertise. Because the work related to both panels is similar, ICANN intends to consolidate the work with a single provider. Deadline: 13 March 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> GNSO’s DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP-1 Observer Enrollment While the PDP membership is structured as a representative model, all of the ICANN community are also free to enroll as an Observer to follow the deliberations of the PDP. To enroll as an Observer, enrollments will be fielded through ICANN Join. If you have not used ICANN Join before, please follow the first-time user instructions below. Accessing ICANN Join does require having an ICANN Account. ICANN Join Instructions [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> 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=001MVaKZkQ…>. 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=001MVaKZkQ…> 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=001MVaKZkQ…>source suggestions [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> on where to find reliable data. Happy editing! Public Comment NEW: Draft Guidelines for Advancing UA Adoption [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> Open for Submissions Date: Monday, 23 February 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 13 April 2026 Name Collision Procedure Documentation [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> Open for Submissions Date: Thursday, 29 January 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 16 March 2026 Fundamental Bylaws Amendments on IANA-Related Reviews and CSC Charter Update [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> Open for Submissions Date: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 30 March 2026 Standard Bylaws Amendment – Transition Article on Specific Reviews [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> Open for Submissions Date: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 30 March 2026 Proposed Root KSK Algorithm Rollover [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> Open for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 3 February 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 6 April 2026 See upcoming proceedings [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…>. See other public consultations [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…>. Events These events occur in February and March 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=001MVaKZkQ…>. · IX Fórum Regional Edição Sudeste - Ribeirão Preto / SP · (IN) NUG · ICANN85 Mumbai Community Forum · IETF 125 · IX Regular Meeting of the Assembly of Citel · WACREN 2026 · Regional Development Forum for Europe (RDS-EUR) 2026 · ICANN Webinar Series for EMEA-Behind the Scenes of the L-root: Architecture and Design · 54th Executive Council Meeting · Africa Digital Transformation Summit (ADTS-2026) · Saudi Arabian School of Internet Governance 2026 Volume 8, Issue 15 | Archive [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…> | Next Issue: Thursday, 26 February 2026 STAY INFORMED: Subscribe here [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001MVaKZkQ…>

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Update on accuracy-related materials (Rec. 3 from Council Accuracy Small Team)
by Caitlin Tubergen Feb. 25, 2026

Feb. 25, 2026

Dear Councilors, In anticipation of the upcoming Council agenda topic of accuracy at ICANN85, Support Staff wanted to provide you with an update on new materials that may be relevant to a recommendation from the Council’s Accuracy Small Team. Background: As a reminder, the Council Accuracy Small Team was tasked with reviewing all SG/C feedback on a proposal to move forward on the topic of accuracy in light of the limitations in accessing data for the purposes of measuring accuracy levels. The Council Accuracy Small Team reviewed the feedback to the Council’s assignment and proposed recommendations for the Council’s consideration. Recommendation 3 provides: “The Council Accuracy Small Team recommends the creation of clear and user-friendly educational materials that could be provided before, during, and after domain name registration to assist registrants in understanding (i) the importance of providing and maintaining accurate registration data through the lifecycle of their domain name(s), (ii) how their personal data is processed and protected, and (iii) the consequences of providing inaccurate data or not verifying email/phone under the required timeline. The Small Team does not prescribe how these materials are created, but recommends assembling a diverse and representative group of interested stakeholders to work together on developing the recommended content for the materials.” New materials: At the request of the Registrar Stakeholder Group, ICANN org produced a short document<https://www.icann.org/en/system/files/files/importance-domain-name-registra…> to highlight the importance of maintaining accurate registration data for registrants that registrars, registrants, and the community can reference. This document may be a helpful reference to the Council as it further considers Recommendation 3 - for example: Does this document fulfill the intent and goal of Recommendation 3? If not, what additions or changes could be considered? ACTION for Councilors: Council Leadership has requested Councilors to review this accuracy document<https://www.icann.org/en/system/files/files/importance-domain-name-registra…> and come to the Council meeting on 11 March with initial feedback and reactions. Thank you. Best regards, Caitlin

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Re: DNS Abuse PDP Chair
by Bruna Martins dos Santos Feb. 25, 2026

Feb. 25, 2026

👍 Bruna Martins dos Santos hat über Gmail <https://www.google.com/gmail/about/?utm_source=gmail-in-product&utm_medium=…> reagiert

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Consent Agenda for March Meeting
by Akinremi Peter Taiwo Feb. 25, 2026

Feb. 25, 2026

Dear Colleagues I am attaching a motion for the consent agenda for the March meeting. This motion is to confirm the DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP 1 WG Chair. Please note that the consent agenda does not need a second. Kindly review the motion and share any feedback. -- Best regards *Taiwo Peter Akinremi* ------ ------ ------- ------ ------ ------- ------ ------ ------- ------ ------ ------- ------ ------ *Phd Candidate | Principal & Executive Consultant, CSN* *Email:* compsoftnet(a)gmail.com, p-taiwo(a)compsoftnet.com.ng <peterexecute(a)gmail.com> ___________________________________________

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