Hello All, Note the new gTLD program committee passed the following resolution at its meeting on 2 Feb 2012: http://www.icann.org/en/news/public-comment/closed-generic-05feb13-en.htm The New gTLD Program Committee of the ICANN Board of Directors has discussed this issue and has also directed completion of a set of focused research and analysis items to inform any possible action to be taken. At its 2 February 2013 meeting, the Committee passed the following resolution: Whereas, the New gTLD Program Committee has received correspondence from the community and understands that members of the community are applying a definition of a "closed generic" TLD as a TLD string that is a generic term that is proposed to be operated by a participant exclusively for its own benefit. Whereas, ICANN implemented the Generic Names Supporting Organization (GNSO) policy recommendations on the "Introduction of New Generic Top-Level Domains," and within those policy recommendations there is no specific policy regarding "closed generic" top-level domains (TLDs). Whereas, members of the community have expressed concerns regarding applications for "closed generic" TLDs. Whereas, the New gTLD Program Committee considers that it is important to understand all views and potential ramifications relating to 'closed generic' TLDs. Resolved (2013.02.02.n01), the New gTLD Program Committee directs the President and CEO to open a 21-day public comment forum on this topic, which should include a call for identification of proposed objective criteria to classify applied-for TLDs as "closed generic" TLDs. Resolved (2013.02.02.n02), the New gTLD Program Committee directs the President and CEO to: 1. Summarize and analyze all comments submitted in the public comment forum. 2. Review materials supporting the policy development process resulting in the GNSO policy recommendations on the Introduction of New Generic Top-Level Domains and provide analysis of any discussions relating to the limitations on potential new gTLDs. 3. Analyze the feasibility of objectively classifying applied for TLDs as "closed generic" TLDs. 4. Provide an analysis as to whether the public interest and principles of international law are served by adopting a clear approach regarding 'closed generic' gTLDs. 5. Provide a report, including alternatives, to the New gTLD Program Committee informed by the comments received and analysis conducted.