The objective of this mail is to kick-off a discussion thread which clarifies the GNSO Council's view on the concept of a "Reverse Liaison" to the GAC. Introduction The concept of a Reverse Liaison came up in the GNSO Council discussion with the GAC in Beijing. The discussion was focussed on improving the GAC engagement with the policy work of the GNSO. The most concept of Improved GAC engagement with the policy work of GNSO dates back to [ ]. The GNSO Council refined the Reverse Liaison concept little further in Durban, recognising that it would need to be an individual (or potentially individuals) very familiar with GNSO Council business but not necessarily on the Council due to schedule constraints. What do we mean by Reverse Liaison? . A person who is able to effectively and accurately represent the current status of all aspects of current GNSO policy work . A person who is able to be present at GAC in-person and telephone meetings What qualifications? . Familiarity with and experience of GNSO current policy work and the policy development process . A former GNSO Councillor (how long since they were on the Council? Just left in order to be completely current?) What does the Council expect? . Attendance at Council meetings? . Written and/or oral reports to GNSO Council? What does the GAC expect? . We need to discuss this with the GAC Other practical issues? . Councillors are funded? Will this position be funded for travel and accommodation? . What is the tenure? Assuming we can effectively resolve all of the above and any other related issues, I suggest that we aim to propose to ICANN in writing that ICANN funds this on an experimental basis for an initial year in the first instance. This could be reviewed for effectiveness at or before the next ICANN annual meeting (in 2014) with a view to agreeing to continue or terminate the role. Once we have agreement on the major points above, we will need to discuss and agree it with the GAC and then move forward to attempt to get it funded. A lot of effort between now & Buenos Aires! Thanks, Jonathan