April 2026 - council - lists.icann.org

Council Process for Response to SPIRT Request.
by Lawrence O. Olawale-Roberts April 7, 2026

April 7, 2026

Dear Council Colleagues, On the council agenda for our upcoming meeting is an agenda item under AOB to resolve the Council Process for Response to SPIRT Requests. Seeing that the time for this segment is packed I elected to provide a brief summary on our request to Council via the attached document. I am open to reviewing ideas or answering any questions you may have before our meeting. Lawrence. ----- [Image] [Image] Lawrence Olawale-Roberts Global President & Managing Director Mobile: +234 8070892705, (0)8056 3333 97 Lawrence(a)microboss.org<mailto:Lawrence@microboss.org> [Image] [Image] …collaboration to enhance communication. [Image] https://www.microboss.org<https://www.microboss.org/> | [Image]<https://www.facebook.com/microbosstech/> [Image]<https://www.linkedin.com/company/microbosstech/> [Image]<https://mobile.twitter.com/microbosstech> [Image]<https://www.instagram.com/microbosstech/?hl=en> [Image]<https://www.youtube.com/@microboss> This e-mail and any attachments are confidential and may be protected by legal, professional or other privilege. If you are not the intended recipient, you should not store it, copy it, re-transmit it, use it or disclose its contents, but should return it to the sender immediately and delete your copy from your system. The views expressed are those of the sender and his company MicroBoss. Kindly note that whilst we scan all e-mails for viruses, we cannot guarantee that any e-mail is virus-free. | Do consider the environment before printing this email.

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FW: [Ext] NEW: ICANN Board Seeks Input on Additional Funds for 2026 Round Applicant Support Program
by Terri Agnew April 6, 2026

April 6, 2026

Flagging, several new items but please make sure to read this: ICANN Board Seeks Input on Additional Funds for 2026 Round Applicant Support Program [https://danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/on.jsp?ca=a7ad89d6-2421-497b-ab56-bc47af8254c2…] Monday, 06 April 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=0016l4AbTV…> 2026 Round Applicant Guidebook [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> 2026 Round Vendor Sourcing Timeline [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> 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 Information Sharing · NEW: ICANN Issues Request for Proposal: 2026 Round Auction · NEW: ICANN Board Seeks Input on Additional Funds for 2026 Round Applicant Support Program 2026 Round · Advancing Toward the Open of the 2026 Round · ICANN Announces Community Priority Evaluation Provider for 2026 Round · 2026 Round Highlights from ICANN85 · Call for Expressions of Interest: 2026 Round Independent Objectors · Next Round Champions Toolkit Available in the Six ICANN Languages 🚨 Action Items 🚨 · CLOSES TODAY: ICANN Request for Proposal: Name Collision Temporary Delegation · ICANN Extends Deadline for Geographic Names and Reserved Names Panels RFP for 2026 New gTLD Program · ICANN86 Community Childcare Grants Program: Apply Now · ICANN87 Fellowship Application Round Now Open · ICANN Issues Request for Proposal: 2026 Round Auction · GNSO's DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP-1 Observer Enrollment · ICANNWiki Seeking Volunteers Public Comment · CLOSES TODAY: Proposed Root KSK Algorithm Rollover · ONE WEEK FROM TODAY: Standard Bylaws Amendment – Transition Article on Specific Reviews · ONE WEEK FROM TODAY: Draft Guidelines for Advancing UA Adoption · Draft Evaluation Guides for Community Priority Evaluation (CPE) Events · These events occur in April 2026. Information Sharing NEW: ICANN Issues Request for Proposal: 2026 Round Auction The selected provider will implement the ascending-clock, second-price auction method and must have the capability to accommodate a high volume of auctions, including both direct and indirect contention sets. Deadline: 2 June 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> NEW: ICANN Board Seeks Input on Additional Funds for 2026 Round Applicant Support Program The ICANN Board is requesting community input via written correspondence on additional funds for the ASP. Deadline: 12 April 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> 2026 Round Advancing Toward the Open of the 2026 Round We are only weeks away from opening the 2026 Round of the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program. The program leaders and their teams continue to make significant progress toward the 30 April launch. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> ICANN Announces Community Priority Evaluation Provider for 2026 Round ICANN announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Analysys Mason Limited to be the Community Priority Evaluation (CPE) provider for the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> 2026 Round Highlights From ICANN85 With ICANN85 behind us, I'd like to provide you with an update on the progress being made as we approach the launch of the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round. The ICANN85 Community Forum, the last Public Meeting before the launch day, was busy and productive. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> Call for Expressions of Interest: 2026 Round Independent Objectors ICANN opened a Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) to identify three individuals to serve as Independent Objectors, including one who will act as chair, as part of the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round. The Independent Objectors will file Community and Limited Public Interest objections and appeals and participate in mediation, where appropriate. Although an individual may be affiliated with a firm, that person will be ultimately responsible for the processes described in this EOI. Individuals from the same firm will not be selected. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> 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=0016l4AbTV…>. 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>. Action Items CLOSES TODAY: 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. Deadline: 6 April 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> ICANN Extends Deadline for Geographic Names and Reserved Names Panels RFP for 2026 New gTLD Program Interested providers are invited to submit proposals that ICANN will 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: 10 April 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> ICANN86 Community Childcare Grants Program: Apply Now ICANN opened the application round for its Community Childcare Grants Program [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> for ICANN86 in Seville, Spain. 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, 17 April 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> ICANN87 Fellowship Application Round Now Open ICANN is opening the application round for the ICANN Fellowship Program for ICANN87 Annual General Meeting. The ICANN87 meeting is scheduled for 17–22 October 2026 in Muscat, Oman. If ICANN87 is held virtually, the Fellowship Program also will be held virtually. The deadline to apply is 19 April 2026 at 23:59 UTC. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> ICANN Issues Request for Proposal: 2026 Round Auction The selected provider will implement the ascending-clock, second-price auction method and must have the capability to accommodate a high volume of auctions, including both direct and indirect contention sets. Deadline: 2 June 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> 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=0016l4AbTV…> 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=0016l4AbTV…>. 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=0016l4AbTV…> 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=0016l4AbTV…>source suggestions [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> on where to find reliable data. Happy editing! Public Comment CLOSES TODAY: Proposed Root KSK Algorithm Rollover [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> Open for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 3 February 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 6 April 2026 ONE WEEK FROM TODAY: Standard Bylaws Amendment – Transition Article on Specific Reviews [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> Open for Submissions Date: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 13 April 2026 [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> ONE WEEK FROM TODAY: Draft Guidelines for Advancing UA Adoption [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> Open for Submissions Date: Monday, 23 February 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 13 April 2026 Draft Evaluation Guides for Community Priority Evaluation (CPE) [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> Open for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 24 March 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 04 May 2026 See upcoming proceedings [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…>. See other public consultations [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…>. Events These events occur in April 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=0016l4AbTV…>. · 1st African Preparatory Meeting for WTSA-28 · DNSSEC Training · CaribNOG 31 Regional Meeting · USTTI Cybersecurity Leadership · ARIN 57 · 48 Meeting of PCC.I · ZANOG@iWeek 2026 Volume 8, Issue 23 | Archive [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…> | Next Issue: Thursday, 09 April 2026 STAY INFORMED: Subscribe here [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016l4AbTV…>

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FW: [CORRESPONDENCE] Tripti Sinha to Susan Payne - Board Liaison(s) to the GNSO DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP WG
by Terri Agnew April 6, 2026

April 6, 2026

Hello GNSO Council, Please see the correspondence received RE: ICANN Board Liaison to the GNSO DNS Abuse Mitigation Policy Development Process (PDP) Working Group (WG). We are reaching out to both get them all signed up. This will be posted shortly on the GNSO Correspondence page: https://gnso.icann.org/en/council/correspondence/2026 Thank you. Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO From: Wendy Profit <wendy.profit(a)icann.org> Date: Friday, April 3, 2026 at 11:18 AM To: Susan Payne <susan.payne(a)comlaude.com>, "gnso-chairs(a)icann.org" <gnso-chairs(a)icann.org>, GNSO-Secs <gnso-secs(a)icann.org> Cc: Tripti Sinha <tripti.sinha(a)board.icann.org>, Correspondence <Correspondence(a)icann.org>, Board Ops Team <board-ops-team(a)icann.org>, Secretary <secretary(a)icann.org> Subject: [CORRESPONDENCE] Tripti Sinha to Susan Payne - Board Liaison(s) to the GNSO DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP WG Dear Susan Payne, Please find the attached letter from ICANN Board Chair Tripti Sinha in response to your letter of 17 February 2026 regarding appointing a Board Liaison to the GNSO DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP Working Group. Thank you and best regards, Wendy Profit Board Operations Senior Manager ICANN

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LAST REMINDER | Document and Motion deadline | Monday, 06 April 2026 at 23:59 UTC for GNSO Council Meeting 16 April 2026 at 21:00 UTC
by Terri Agnew April 6, 2026

April 6, 2026

Dear all, Reports, motions, and documents for consideration are due no later than (NLT) 10 days in advance (i.e. Monday, 06 April 2026 at 23:59 UTC) for the GNSO Council Meeting on Thursday, 16 April 2026 at 21:00 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/DwBHJ Thank you. Kind regards, Terri Policy Team Supporting the GNSO

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DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP1 WG (Associated Domain Checks) work plan
by Jennifer Chung April 3, 2026

April 3, 2026

Dear All, As a required step in the GNSO operating procedures, the DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP1 WG (Associated Domain Checks) is submitting its work plan (attached) to the GNSO Council. Work plans are generally only acknowledged by the Council as a matter of AOB. Given the high profile nature of this PDP and the levels of community interest, there is an agenda item in our upcoming April meeting where I will give an update of the work plan and answer any questions Councilors may have. Wishing all a restful weekend, Easter, Passover, Qingming should you observe these festivals. Best, Jen

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Proposed Agenda | GNSO Council | Wednesday, 16 April 2026
by Julie Bisland April 2, 2026

April 2, 2026

Dear all, Please find below the agenda for the GNSO Council meeting taking place on 16 April 2026 at 21:00 UTC. This will be posted on the agenda wiki page <https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/agAyJ> shortly. Thank you. Kind regards, Julie Policy Team Supporting the GNSO ********** GNSO Council Agenda 16 April 2026 Please note that all documents referenced in the agenda have been gathered on a Wiki page for convenience and easier access: Documents 2026-04-16<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYBRJ> 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, 16 April 2026 at 21:00 UTC: Event Time Announcer - GNSO Council Meeting<https://tinyurl.com/38jbydhn> 14:00 Los Angeles; 17:00 Washington DC; 22:00 London; 23:00 Paris; (Friday) 00:00 Moscow; 07:00 Melbourne GNSO Council Meeting Remote Participation: <https://icann.zoom.us/j/91048235847?pwd=bmEHjk0uYT3sR2DIoE0c0yw4HKbM6O.1> Join our Cloud HD Video Meeting<https://icann.zoom.us/j/92983839529?pwd=R0BcWsye1mbmk1uFXUbeN42WAt2jyP.1> 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 12 February 2026 were posted on 03 March 2026. Minutes <https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2026/minutes/minutes-gnso…> of the GNSO Council Meeting on 11 March 2026 were posted on 29 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) * GNSO Review of the GAC Communiqué * Board Seat 14 (Non-Contracted Party House) * Chris Buckridge Item 4: Council Discussion - Proposed Process to Un-Adopt Approved GNSO Policy Recommendations (15 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 an adopted 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 and circulated<https://lists.icann.org/hyperkitty/list/council@icann.org/thread/AG5GYIOAK7…> updated text for the PDP<https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WxnQEsswTbeLuT-D_iZzD8N9BXGIgiGkYiaADsx…> and GGP<https://docs.google.com/document/d/159UvOrKfigdEvWCB9f4cmHNo8cVVlOMCE2LTTRE…> Manuals to the Council. The updated text, which was presented during the March 2026 Council meeting<https://icann.zoom.us/rec/play/152o_2p-GXyQcg7t2rfUd4Tnn8d778AkXhDRZzL16RRR…> endeavors to strike the right balance of necessary flexibility and appropriate guardrails. Councilors were asked to discuss the proposed updates with their groups and share feedback. Here, the Council will discuss whether there are any concerns that need to be addressed prior to finalizing the updated language. 4.1 - Introduction of Topic (Jennifer Chung, GNSO Council Vice-Chair) 4.2 - Council Discussion 4.3 - Next Steps Item 5: Council Update - SSAD Supplemental Recommendations: Team Composition and Assignment (20 minutes) On 2 March 2026<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2026/correspondence/payne…>, the GNSO Council wrote to the ICANN Board noting, “while the GNSO Council understands the sensitivities inherent in Board non-adoption, the GNSO Council believes the Supplemental Recommendations path is the most efficient way to make important and necessary improvements to the SSAD recommendations.” Additionally the Council noted, “while the GNSO Council has not agreed to a specific timeline yet, in our recent discussions, GNSO Councilors agreed that Supplemental Recommendations should be delivered to the ICANN Board within months, not years”. Following discussions with the GNSO Council, on 12 March 2026, the Board passed a resolution<https://www.icann.org/en/board-activities-and-meetings/materials/approved-r…> to not adopt the 18 SSAD recommendations. In its resolution, the Board urged the GNSO Council to “ensure that future policy work on the SSAD recommendations is aligned with other relevant policy work; and is completed within the Board's two-year operational extension for RDRS, which ends in November 2027.” The Board also sent the following correspondence to the Council on 18 March 2026<https://itp.cdn.icann.org/en/files/correspondence/sinha-to-payne-18-03-2026…>. On 12 March 2026<https://icann85.sched.com/event/2Gwoc/gnso-discussion-on-next-steps-for-ssa…>, the GNSO held a discussion about next steps for the SSAD recommendations, where ICANN Support Staff presented a proposed team composition for the Council and Community’s consideration. ICANN Support Staff amended the initial proposal for team composition based on Council and Community discussions and distributed it to the Council for further feedback on 20 March 2026<https://lists.icann.org/hyperkitty/list/council@icann.org/thread/62SKWKAA2W…>. ICANN Support Staff also distributed a proposed draft Assignment Form on [x date]. Here, the Council will confirm team composition principles and agree to kick off the SSAD Supplemental Recommendations Team based on the proposed draft Assignment Form. [Additionally, ICANN Board caucus members have been invited to participate in the discussion.] 5.1 - Introduction of Topic (Susan Payne, GNSO Chair) 5.2 - Council Discussion 5.3 - Next Steps Item 6: Next Steps on Urgent Requests (20 minutes) During the first GNSO Working Session<https://icann85.sched.com/event/2Gwac/gnso-work-session-1-of-3> at ICANN85, the ICANN Board provided an informal update to the GNSO Council regarding the timeline within which registry operators and registrars will be required to respond to urgent requests for lawful disclosure. The Board caucus members noted the public comment period<https://www.icann.org/en/public-comment/proceeding/timeline-for-urgent-requ…> on the timeline for urgent requests had recently concluded. Based on the comments received, the Board and ICANN org noted the comments largely aligned on the proposed timeline<https://itp.cdn.icann.org/en/files/new-generic-top-level-domain-g-tld-progr…> of “without undue delay, not to exceed 24 hours absent exceptional circumstances as described in 10.7.2.3” and associated policy language. Accordingly, the ICANN Board noted the discussion of the timeline appears closed and the policy language can be included as an update to the Registration Data Policy<https://www.icann.org/en/contracted-parties/consensus-policies/registration…>. The Board additionally noted an outstanding question regarding ongoing work on an authentication mechanism for authenticating law enforcement requestors. The Board noted there was generalized alignment in the Community that in order to respond to urgent requests in an appropriate timeframe, authentication of the individual submitting the request was critical. Additionally, the Board noted that while there has been progress on authentication work within the dedicated PSWG Group, there is not currently an agreed upon authentication mechanism. Because the soon-to-be published policy language includes the concept of authenticated entities, there remains a gap in enforcement of the policy. In light of this, the Board noted three potential paths to close the gap and sought feedback from the Council on which path the Council considers appropriate: 1. Council to acknowledge that further development and establishment of an authentication mechanism is part of fully implementing Phase 1, Recommendation 18<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/file/field-file-attach/epdp-gtld…>. Accordingly, no further policy development work is required for the urgent request timeline specified in Phase 1. 2. Council to further consider authentication as part of its work on Supplemental Recommendations on EPDP Phase 2 (the SSAD recommendations) and any additional language or clarification needed could be added to the Supplemental Recommendations, noting authentication for urgent requests applies for requests sent directly to a Contracted Party OR a request sent via an eventual SSAD. 3. Board to un-adopt a subsection of Phase 1, Recommendation 18<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/file/field-file-attach/epdp-gtld…> regarding the urgent request timeline, allowing the Council to issue a Supplemental Recommendation that would include the concept of an authentication. (Note: the process for Board un-adoption is still under Council discussion.) Here, the Council will discuss the above options and agree on next steps. 6.1 - Introduction of Topic (Susan Payne, GNSO Chair) 6.2 - Council Discussion 6.3 - Next Steps Item 7: Review of Reviews Update (15 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). The GNSO-appointed representatives to the CCG have provided periodic updates to the Council. Here, the GNSO-appointed representatives to the CCG will provide an update on the latest progress to date. 7.1 - Introduction of Topic (Osvaldo Novoa and Sophie Hey, GNSO representatives to the Review of Reviews) 7.2 - Council Discussion 7.3 - Next Steps Item 8: Review of DNS Abuse PDP1 Work Plan (15 minutes) During its meeting<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/gnsocouncilmeetings/pages…> on 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 GNSO Council requested that the DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP 1 Working Group be convened as soon as possible after the adoption of the Charter in order to fulfill the requirements of this PDP. On 15 January 2026, the GNSO Council adopted <https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2026/vote-result/gnso-cou…> the PDP 1 Charter<https://gnso.icann.org/sites/default/files/policy/2026/draft/charter-dns-ab…> and commenced the formation of the PDP 1 WG, which held its first meeting at ICANN85 Mumbai. Since then, the PDP WG has been making progress on its charter questions while it finalizes its project plan. As a required step in the GNSO operating procedures, the PDP WG has submitted its work plan to the GNSO Council. Work plans are generally only acknowledged by the Council as a matter of AOB; afterwards, the work plan functions as a critical element of mutual accountability between the WG and the Council, as the manager of the policy development process. Given the high profile nature of this PDP and the levels of community interest, the Council liaison to the PDP will give a more thorough update of the work plan. 8.1 - Introduction of Topic (Jennifer Chung, GNSO Council Vice-Chair) 8.2 - Council Discussion 8.3 - Next Steps Item 9: Any other business (20 minutes) 9.1 - Update on ICANN86 planning and GNSO Draft schedule 9.2 - ccNSO Liaison update 9.3 - Council Process for Response to SPIRT Request 9.4 - PPSAI IRT Liaison Update 9.5 - GNSO-GAC Bilateral ICANN86 preview _______________________________ 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> Bylaws FOR INTERNET CORPORATION FOR ASSIGNED NAMES AND NUMBERS | A California Nonprofit Public-Benefit Corporation - ICANN<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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FW: [Ext] NEW:
by Julie Bisland April 2, 2026

April 2, 2026

FYI--- From: ICANN Community Digest <digest(a)icann.ccsend.com> Reply-To: "policyinfo(a)icann.org" <policyinfo(a)icann.org> Date: Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 10:06 AM To: Julie Bisland <julie.bisland(a)icann.org> Subject: [Ext] NEW: [https://danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/on.jsp?ca=41e0feb8-eb2e-47a9-8576-b4c7f6a6d900…] Thursday, 02 April 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=001LXtuoWb…> 2026 Round Applicant Guidebook [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> 2026 Round Vendor Sourcing Timeline [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> 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 Information Sharing · NEW: ICANN Issues Request for Proposal: 2026 Round Auction · NEW: ICANN Extends Deadline for Geographic Names and Reserved Names Panels RFP for 2026 New gTLD Program · NEW: Approved Resolutions | Special Meeting of the ICANN Board | 26 March 2026 2026 Round · Advancing Toward the Open of the 2026 Round · ICANN Announces Community Priority Evaluation Provider for 2026 Round · 2026 Round Highlights from ICANN85 · Call for Expressions of Interest: 2026 Round Independent Objectors · Next Round Champions Toolkit Available in the Six ICANN Languages 🚨 Action Items 🚨 · CLOSES MONDAY: ICANN Request for Proposal: Name Collision Temporary Delegation · ICANN86 Community Childcare Grants Program: Apply Now · ICANN87 Fellowship Application Round Now Open · GNSO's DNS Abuse Mitigation PDP-1 Observer Enrollment · ICANNWiki Seeking Volunteers Public Comment · CLOSES MONDAY: Proposed Root KSK Algorithm Rollover · Standard Bylaws Amendment – Transition Article on Specific Reviews · Draft Guidelines for Advancing UA Adoption · Draft Evaluation Guides for Community Priority Evaluation (CPE) Events · These events occur in April 2026. Information Sharing NEW: ICANN Issues Request for Proposal: 2026 Round Auction The selected provider will implement the ascending-clock, second-price auction method and must have the capability to accommodate a high volume of auctions, including both direct and indirect contention sets. Deadline: 2 June 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> NEW: ICANN Extends Deadline for Geographic Names and Reserved Names Panels RFP for 2026 New gTLD Program Interested providers are invited to submit proposals that ICANN will 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: 10 April 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> NEW: Approved Resolutions | Special Meeting of the ICANN Board | 26 March 2026 Please find the Approved Resolutions from the 26 March 2026 Special Meeting of the ICANN Board here [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…>. 2026 Round Advancing Toward the Open of the 2026 Round We are only weeks away from opening the 2026 Round of the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program. The program leaders and their teams continue to make significant progress toward the 30 April launch. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> ICANN Announces Community Priority Evaluation Provider for 2026 Round ICANN announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Analysys Mason Limited to be the Community Priority Evaluation (CPE) provider for the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> 2026 Round Highlights From ICANN85 With ICANN85 behind us, I'd like to provide you with an update on the progress being made as we approach the launch of the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round. The ICANN85 Community Forum, the last Public Meeting before the launch day, was busy and productive. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> Call for Expressions of Interest: 2026 Round Independent Objectors ICANN opened a Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) to identify three individuals to serve as Independent Objectors, including one who will act as chair, as part of the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round. The Independent Objectors will file Community and Limited Public Interest objections and appeals and participate in mediation, where appropriate. Although an individual may be affiliated with a firm, that person will be ultimately responsible for the processes described in this EOI. Individuals from the same firm will not be selected. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> 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=001LXtuoWb…>. 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>. Action Items CLOSES MONDAY: 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. Deadline: 6 April 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> ICANN86 Community Childcare Grants Program: Apply Now ICANN opened the application round for its Community Childcare Grants Program [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> for ICANN86 in Seville, Spain. 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, 17 April 2026 Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> ICANN87 Fellowship Application Round Now Open ICANN is opening the application round for the ICANN Fellowship Program for ICANN87 Annual General Meeting. The ICANN87 meeting is scheduled for 17–22 October 2026 in Muscat, Oman. If ICANN87 is held virtually, the Fellowship Program also will be held virtually. The deadline to apply is 19 April 2026 at 23:59 UTC. Read more. [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> 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=001LXtuoWb…> 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=001LXtuoWb…>. 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=001LXtuoWb…> 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=001LXtuoWb…>source suggestions [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> on where to find reliable data. Happy editing! Public Comment CLOSES MONDAY: Proposed Root KSK Algorithm Rollover [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> Open for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 3 February 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 6 April 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=001LXtuoWb…> Open for Submissions Date: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 13 April 2026 [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> Draft Guidelines for Advancing UA Adoption [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> Open for Submissions Date: Monday, 23 February 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 13 April 2026 Draft Evaluation Guides for Community Priority Evaluation (CPE) [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> Open for Submissions Date: Tuesday, 24 March 2026 Closed for Submissions Date: Monday, 04 May 2026 See upcoming proceedings [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…>. See other public consultations [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…>. Events These events occur in April 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=001LXtuoWb…>. · CanWISP 2026 · DNSSEC Training in Dushanbe · 1st African Preparatory Meeting for WTSA-28 · DNSSEC Training · CaribNOG 31 Regional Meeting Volume 8, Issue 22 | Archive [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…> | Next Issue: Monday, 06 April 2026 STAY INFORMED: Subscribe here [danh45uab.cc.rs6.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/danh45uab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LXtuoWb…>

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IPC Position on Reverse Adoption of GNSO Policy Recommendations
by Ashcraft, Damon April 2, 2026

April 2, 2026

Fellow Councilors: I write to share the Intellectual Property Constituency’s stance on the proposed process for Reverse Adoption of GNSO Policy Recommendations. A copy of the IPC’s comment submitted in January is attached which lays out the IPCs’ position. The IPC doesn’t support this for two main reasons. First, having a formal policy in place at the Council level to unadopt policy recommendations supports and frankly encourages the idea that it’s acceptable to go through the lengthy and costly policy development process only wait so long to actually implement the policy that it’s either no longer fit for purpose (allegedly) or out of date. ICANN policy should be implemented as soon as possible and Council should encourage that—not have a built in off ramp to essentially nullify years of previous work. Second, an unadoption of policy is an issue that should be dealt with in the bylaws and by the empowered community—not by Council. Please review our attached comment for more information. I am certainly available to speak to anyone who has questions. Thanks, Damon J. Damon Ashcraft , P.C. O: 602.382.6389<tel:602.382.6389> | M: 602.510.1640<tel:602.510.1640> dashcraft(a)swlaw.com<mailto:dashcraft@swlaw.com> SNELL & WILMER swlaw.com<https://us.content.exclaimer.net?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.swlaw.com%2F&tenanti…> | LinkedIn<https://us.content.exclaimer.net?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompa…> One East Washington Street | Suite 2700 | Phoenix, AZ 85004‑2556 Albuquerque | Boise | Dallas | Denver | Las Vegas | Los Angeles | Los Cabos | Orange County | Palo Alto | Phoenix | Portland | Reno-Tahoe | Salt Lake City | San Diego | Seattle | Tucson | Washington, D.C. This email and any attachments may be confidential and protected by legal privilege. If you have received this message in error, please do not disclose the contents to anyone. Please notify the sender by return email and delete this email as well as any attachments from your system.

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Prioritization tool proposal
by Tapani Tarvainen April 1, 2026

April 1, 2026

Dear all, In our Mumbai meeting we discussed project prioritization. I noted that all of the proposals on the table were problematic, and that there might be a better way to do it. Essentially all voting and ranking schemes are problematic. First, results are sometimes surprising, unintuitive - e.g., adding an irrelevant alternative can change the result. Second, they are susceptible to gaming, or strategic voting: voting honestly by your preferences is not optimal for achieving the results you want. Some systems are better than others but none are perfect, and the better ones tend to be more complicated and harder to understand. But for project prioritization, where the intent is not to get final results by ranking but just to use it as a tool to help discussion, at least some of those problems could be avoided by doing it differently. The idea is simple: have something like a spreadsheet, where people can enter their rankings and that computes the averages or whatever automatically. (Google Docs should work.) I don’t think it matters much exactly how the averages would be calculated, but in general the simpler the better. Key points: (1) Votes are not secret, everybody can see what others have done. (2) Ranking is not a one-off, but people can change their choices after seeing what others have done, as often as they like. It is critical that there is no hard, predetermined cut-off point: that would bring all the problems back. Consequently there's no final outcome either, unless and until everyone agrees. So this would not be a method for making final decisions, only a tool to facilitate discussion. I’m not sure how well this would work, but it should be easy enough to try and see. -- Tapani Tarvainen

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