Dear Lance,
Thank you for sharing this proposal.
During the February
9 meeting, the discussion evolved toward an orientation to move forward with two specific teams and to close the remaining working groups. However, since then, there has been no observable implementation of that orientation, nor a defined process to carry it forward.
In that context, the proposal you are now putting forward introduces a different approach, based on a single working group with subgroups, which was not the subject of agreement in that meeting. This introduces a lack of continuity with what was previously discussed and makes it more difficult to ensure consistency in decision-making.
During that discussion,
I raised the need to establish a clear basis for evaluating the functioning of the working groups, including the request for a work plan and the definition of objective criteria to determine their continuation or closure. To date, those elements have not been put in place. Furthermore, considering the time that has elapsed since this issue was addressed, there is still no implemented decision nor a formally defined process. This highlights the need to approach the matter with greater procedural clarity.
From a governance perspective within ICANN, working groups are mechanisms for community participation. Accordingly, any decision regarding their continuation or closure requires a transparent process, supported by defined and documented criteria.
The ICANN model is based on a
“bottom-up” approach, meaning that decisions are built from community input through open and participatory processes. In the absence of a process that gathers community input and establishes a clear basis for decision-making, it is not evident that this principle is being reflected in this case.
In that regard, I consider that any reconfiguration of the working groups would be appropriately supported if it is based on clearly defined criteria and on information that allows for an assessment of their functioning, including work plans. This would help ensure that decisions are taken on an objective and consistent basis, aligned with the governance practices of the community.
Kind regards,
Eunice Alejandra Pérez Coello