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[Webinar] What Makes a DNS Abuse Complaint to ICANN Actionable: Insights and Common Challenges
by Fahd Batayneh May 24, 2026

May 24, 2026

Dear all, Our May webinar will look into What Makes a DNS Abuse Complaint to ICANN Actionable: Insights and Common Challenges. 27 May, 12.00 – 13.00 UTC. More info + registration: https://www.icann.org/en/engagement-calendar/details/webinar-for-emea-what-… Kind regards, Fahd Batayneh ICANN [cid:image001.png@01DCEB6A.FD000550]

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Invitation to Participate Online – Lebanon Universal Acceptance Day 2026
by Amin Hacha May 24, 2026

May 24, 2026

Dear Colleagues and Friends, You are cordially invited to participate *online* in *Lebanon Universal Acceptance Day 2026 (*UA Adoption & Demonstration Day), organized by the Lebanese Cyberspace Association in collaboration with UNESCO and ICANN. 📅 Date: Thursday, 28 May 2026 🕘 Time: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM *Beirut Time* || 6:30 AM - 17:30 PM *UTC * (with morning and afternoon sessions) 🌐 Format: In-Person - and - Online Participation 🔗 Registration @: Lebanon Universal Acceptance Day 2026 <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScG_6zCZWaCVrl8UEA0AVOMR8QTNX3E62E…> ( and to receive access details for the event ) - deadline *Wednesday 27 May 2026, 23:59 UTC.* *Participants attending the full afternoon workshop session will be eligible to receive a special Certificate of Participation upon request.* Lebanon UA Day 2026 will bring together international experts, technical community representatives, developers, policymakers, Internet governance stakeholders, and digital ecosystem leaders from Lebanon and the region. The event will feature technical presentations, implementation insights, awareness discussions, and live demonstrations focused on Universal Acceptance (UA), multilingual Internet accessibility, Email Address Internationalization (EAI), and digital inclusion. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage directly with experts and contribute to discussions advancing a more inclusive and multilingual Internet ecosystem. *Program Highlights* *Morning Sessions* 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM *Beirut Time* 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM *UTC* • Opening Ceremony • What is Universal Acceptance? • Universal Acceptance Live Demonstration • International Spotlight Session • Internet for All — Multi-Sector Commitments to Universal Acceptance and Digital Inclusion • Vote of Thanks *Afternoon Sessions and Workshop* 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM *Beirut Time* 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM *UTC* • Opening and Introduction to Universal Acceptance • Universal Acceptance: Awareness and Global Perspectives • Live Technical Demonstrations • Technical Adoption Experience: Demystifying Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs), Universal Acceptance (UA), and Email Address Internationalization (EAI) 🔗 More Details: Lebanon UA Day 2026 - Lebanese Cyberspace <https://lebanesecyberspace.com/lebanon-ua-day-2026/> We would be delighted to welcome your participation in this important international initiative. With kind regards, Amine Hacha President Lebanese Cyberspace Association

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ICANN Announces Next Major Internet Security Update
by Fahd Batayneh May 22, 2026

May 22, 2026

https://www.icann.org/resources/press-material/release-2026-05-20-en The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) today announced that it is planning to change the trust anchor for the Domain Name System (DNS) on 11 October 2026. This change, known as a rollover, is an important step in maintaining the long-term security, stability, and resiliency of the DNS. The trust anchor is formally known as the Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) root zone Key Signing Key (KSK). The KSK is the cryptographic key at the core of the DNSSEC trust anchor and is used to verify that DNS responses are legitimate and have not been modified in transit. DNSSEC helps ensure that Internet users receive authentic DNS data when accessing websites and online services. The rollover process replaces the current KSK with a new one, to maintain strong cryptographic security protections across the global DNS. "The trust anchor rollover is a carefully coordinated process that helps safeguard the integrity of the DNS," said Kim Davies, Vice President, Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) Services and President of Public Technical Identifiers (PTI). "While most Internet users will not notice any change, operators of DNS software should confirm that their systems are properly configured to trust the new key ahead of the rollover." ICANN, through its IANA functions, manages the DNS root zone and coordinates the rollover in collaboration with partners across the global Internet community. To minimize the risk of disruption, ICANN publishes the new KSK well in advance, allowing impacted operators sufficient time to update systems and verify that automated trust anchor update mechanisms function correctly. The rollover process follows a phased implementation timeline that began in 2024 and will conclude in 2027. During this period, both the current and new KSKs remain valid, giving recursive resolvers – the systems operated by Internet service providers, enterprises, and others that look up and verify DNS information on behalf of users – time to adopt the new trust anchor before the new KSK begins signing the root zone in October 2026 and the old key is retired in January 2027. Operators running validating recursive resolvers, particularly those with manually configured trust anchors or older software, are encouraged to review their systems and verify readiness for the rollover. Failure to update systems may result in DNS resolution failures after the rollover date. More information about the KSK rollover, including operational guidance and technical resources, is available at ICANN KSK Rollover Information Page<https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/ksk-rollover-en>.

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ICANN86 Schedule Now Available
by Fahd Batayneh May 12, 2026

May 12, 2026

https://www.icann.org/en/announcements/details/icann86-schedule-now-availab… The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is hosting the ICANN86 Policy Forum from 8–11 June 2026 in Seville, Spain. The schedule<https://icann86.sched.com/> for the hybrid event, which will accommodate both in-person and virtual participation, is now available on the ICANN86 Policy Forum website<https://meetings.icann.org/en/meetings/icann86/>. ICANN86 will take place during regular working hours in Seville, Spain (Central European Summer Time, CEST / UTC+2:00 hours). In-person attendees must register<https://meetings.icann.org/en/meetings/icann86/> by 7 June 2026. There will be no on-site registration facilities. ICANN is committed to ensuring that all community members, whether planning to attend in person or remotely, can participate in the ICANN86 Policy Forum. For individuals who are not able to travel to the meeting, various remote participation options are available to allow everyone to engage in the discussions. There will be ample opportunities to network and collaborate during the ICANN86 Policy Forum. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of them to meet with colleagues and make new connections. To prepare for ICANN86, join Prep Week<https://www.icann.org/en/announcements/details/icann86-prep-week-schedule-n…> on 20 and 21 May 2026. Note: Registration for ICANN86 does not automatically create a user account on ICANN's meetings schedule platform, Sched. You will still need to log in to your previous Sched account or sign up for a new account. Learn<https://sched.com/guide-category/guide-for-attendees/> how to use Sched and personalize<https://sched.com/guide/your-personalized-schedule/> your schedule or export the entire meeting schedule.

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Call for Expressions of Interest: ICANN 2027 NomCom Chair and Chair-Elect
by Fahd Batayneh May 11, 2026

May 11, 2026

Dear All, The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) organization is seeking Expressions of Interest for the Chair and Chair-Elect of the 2027 Nominating Committee (NomCom). If interested, please read more here >> https://www.icann.org/en/announcements/details/call-for-expressions-of-inte… Thank you, Fahd Batayneh ICANN

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ICANN Opens Second Application Period for the 2026 Round RSP Evaluation Program
by Fahd Batayneh May 3, 2026

May 3, 2026

https://www.icann.org/en/announcements/details/icann-opens-second-applicati… The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has opened the second application period for the Registry Service Provider (RSP) Evaluation Program as part of the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round. The second application period for the RSP Evaluation Program runs from 30 April to 12 August 2026. The RSP Evaluation Program streamlines the evaluation of gTLD applications by separating the evaluation of the technical aspects of operating a gTLD from the application for the label. RSPs support registry operators by providing critical back-end services, including Domain Name System (DNS) services, performing the cryptographic operations required of DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC), and providing registration data via the Registration Data Access Protocol (RDAP), plus other services outlined in the RSP Handbook<https://newgtldprogram.icann.org/sites/default/files/documents/rsp-handbook…>. The program ensures that RSPs meet the technical requirements to operate the back end of a gTLD. Once successfully evaluated, an RSP does not need to repeat the evaluation process, regardless of the number of services it provides or the number of gTLDs it supports. All gTLD applicants must identify at least one RSP that has been successfully evaluated through the program. This RSP would agree to support their application if it proceeds to delegation. In some cases, the RSP may be the applicant itself; in other cases, services may be provided by a third-party RSP. This second application period runs in parallel with the New gTLD Program: 2026 Round application submission window, and may potentially expand the pool of evaluated providers on the List of Evaluated RSPs<https://newgtldprogram.icann.org/en/application-rounds/round2/rsp/rsp-appli…>. Organizations that complete evaluation during this period will join RSPs approved in the pre-evaluation application period that concluded in May 2025. No further application periods will be opened for the RSP Evaluation Program for the 2026 Round. More information about the RSP Evaluation Program, including the handbook, application fees, and access to the RSP Portal, is available on the program webpage<https://newgtldprogram.icann.org/en/application-rounds/round2/rsp>. Recordings and supporting materials from ICANN Public Meetings and webinars are also available. Please contact ICANN Global Support at globalsupport(a)icann.org<mailto:globalsupport@icann.org> with any questions about this program.

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ICANN Opens Application Window for New Generic Top-Level Domains
by Fahd Batayneh May 3, 2026

May 3, 2026

https://www.icann.org/en/announcements/details/icann-opens-application-wind… The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers<https://www.icann.org/> (ICANN), the nonprofit organization that coordinates the Internet's Domain Name System (DNS), today announced that its New gTLD Program: 2026 Round<https://newgtldprogram.icann.org/en> application window is now open. Generic top-level domains, or gTLDs, are the part of a web address after the last dot. For the first time in over a decade businesses, communities, governments, and other organizations have the opportunity to operate unique digital assets, such as .brand, .city, or .industry, for the use of their business, customers, or constituents. A Strategic Tool for the Digital Era A gTLD is a global digital identifier that can anchor businesses in the digital arena, providing control over the left and right of the dot. The previous application round in 2012 resulted in the introduction of more than 1,200 new gTLDs, including those for brands like .microsoft and .sky, geographic locations such as .africa and .berlin, and general terms like .bank and .eco. New gTLDs have demonstrated their benefits in building brand trust, creating vibrant local digital ecosystems, and providing more intuitive navigation for users. Key Benefits of Operating a gTLD A gTLD is a unique digital home that provides: * Control and Flexibility: Define your own digital ecosystem by determining who can register under your domain name. * Security: Strengthen online transactions and build robust defenses against cyber threats, protecting both your brand and your customers. * Competitive Edge: Marketers overwhelmingly agree<https://www.icann.org/resources/press-material/release-2025-05-20-en>, with 92 percent recognizing gTLD benefits like differentiation, enhanced trust, and improved SEO. "gTLDs are unique digital tools that can be used in meaningful and innovative ways to help achieve long-term goals," said Kurtis Lindqvist, President and CEO, ICANN. "Whether building a brand for a company, spotlighting a geographic region or city, strengthening a community, or launching a business to offer domain names under a new registry, a new gTLD can be an innovative tool for commerce, security, and communication." The 2026 Round will expand the number of languages available for Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs) by accepting gTLD applications in 27 different scripts, representing hundreds of languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Devanagari, and Thai. This expansion will make the Internet more accessible and user-friendly for billions of people who use non-Latin-based scripts. How To Apply The application submission window will close on 12 August 2026. Applicants must submit their applications through the online TLD Application Management System (TAMS) here<https://newgtld-applications.icann.org/suite/sites/gtld-landing-page>. Applicant Resources The Applicant Guidebook<https://newgtldprogram.icann.org/en/application-rounds/round2/agb> is the authoritative roadmap for any entity interested in applying for a gTLD. It includes the application questions, requirements, and processes to lead applicants through the submission and evaluation processes. Applicants are strongly advised to carefully review the TAMS resources prior to submitting an application. These resources include a system User Guide, demonstration videos, and other helpful tools, all available here<https://newgtldprogram.icann.org/en/application-rounds/round2/applicant-jou…>. Additional resources, including Frequently Asked Questions, topic overviews, webinar recordings, and more are available on the 2026 Round Resources webpage<https://newgtldprogram.icann.org/en/application-rounds/round2/2026-round-ge…>.

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[Blog] Technical Study Group Forming: gTLD Integrations with Alternative Naming Systems
by Fahd Batayneh April 29, 2026

April 29, 2026

https://www.icann.org/en/blogs/details/technical-study-group-forming-gtld-i… ICANN is in the process of forming a new technical study group (TSG) to understand the implications of integrating a generic top-level domain (gTLD) name with the same name in an alternative naming system. A thorough assessment of the potential impact to the security and stability of the Domain Name System (DNS) must be conducted before moving forward with this type of new registry service. This aligns with ICANN's mission of ensuring the stable, secure, and unified operation of the Internet's unique identifier systems. The decision to form this new TSG was based on several factors, including interest from multiple gTLD operators in adding this service to their offerings. After analyzing these requests, ICANN determined that, in addition to following the Registry Services Evaluation Policy<https://www.icann.org/en/contracted-parties/consensus-policies/registry-ser…>, gTLD registry operators would likely be required to complete an assessment by the Registry Service Technical Evaluation Panel<https://www.icann.org/en/contracted-parties/registry-operators/services/rse…> (RSEP), which has an associated cost for registries. With these factors and the growing interest in integrating a gTLD with other naming systems, it is prudent for ICANN to assess this type of service. ICANN President and CEO Kurtis Lindqvist will invite experts to participate in the new TSG. While details are still being ironed out, meeting discussions and related material will be publicly available on a dedicated web page. We will provide regular updates on the group's progress and its recommendations will be published for Public Comment at the appropriate time. Stay tuned for more information.

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[Blog]Inside the Room: Our Upcoming KSK Ceremony
by Fahd Batayneh April 29, 2026

April 29, 2026

https://www.icann.org/en/blogs/details/inside-the-room-our-upcoming-ksk-cer… The Domain Name System (DNS) has a complex set of security measures that help ensure the integrity of the system, which is used every time you type a web address, send an email, or open an app. One of the most important links in that chain is something called the root zone key signing key (KSK), an essential component that must be carefully managed and guarded. Also known as the "trust anchor," this piece is administered under strict controls that are exercised through a process known as a KSK ceremony. The next KSK ceremony<https://www.iana.org/dnssec/ceremonies/61> takes place on 30 April 2026 at 17:00 UTC as part of the carefully designed processes that help keep the DNS secure and resilient. These events are a study in contrasts—procedural, clinical events with high visibility and great criticality. Comparable events by other critical organizations are performed in secret, but we've pioneered the concept of performing them in the open to promote transparency, trust, and knowledge-sharing. At a basic level, the DNS functions like a directory, translating readable domain names into the numerical addresses computers use to find each other. To protect that system from tampering, DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC) add a layer of cryptographic verification. This is where the KSK comes in. The KSK sits at the top of the DNSSEC trust hierarchy. It is used to sign another key, the Zone Signing Key (ZSK), which in turn signs the DNS data in the root zone. This chain of signatures allows devices around the world to verify that the DNS data they receive is authentic and has not been altered. If that trust is broken, users could be redirected to malicious sites without realizing it. That's why the KSK is handled with extraordinary care. KSK ceremonies are typically held four times a year in highly secure facilities. They follow strict, transparent procedures that have been refined over time and are publicly documented. Each ceremony brings together ICANN staff and Trusted Community Representatives–independent security experts from around the world who help ensure accountability and oversight. During a typical ceremony, the KSK is used to sign key material that will be used in DNSSEC operations over the following months. The process also allows for other critical maintenance tasks, such as updating roles for Trusted Community Representatives, updating hardware security modules, or, when necessary, generating or replacing the KSK itself. The structure is intentional. Every step is witnessed, logged, and typically live-streamed, reinforcing confidence that no single person or organization has unilateral control. This transparency is central to ICANN's multistakeholder model and to maintaining global trust in the DNS. For most Internet users, the impact of a KSK ceremony is invisible, which is exactly the point. When everything works as it should, users can rely on the Internet without thinking about the infrastructure that makes it possible. But the integrity of that experience depends on processes like these being executed with precision and care. The upcoming ceremony continues that steady, deliberate work. It is one of many steps taken to ensure that the Internet remains a single, interoperable network that users everywhere can trust. In a digital environment where threats continue to evolve, maintaining that trust is an ongoing responsibility. The KSK ceremony takes place behind secure doors, but its impact reaches every corner of the Internet, quietly safeguarding the connections people depend on every day. If you're curious to see how this works in practice, you can join the upcoming ceremony<https://www.iana.org/dnssec/ceremonies/61> via livestream and observe the process as it unfolds. If you'd like to understand more about how it all works, you can read The Key to the Internet and Key Ceremonies: An Explainer<https://www.icann.org/en/blogs/details/the-key-to-the-internet-and-key-cere…>.

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ICANN Launches Webinar Series on 2026 Round Objections and Appeals Processes
by Fahd Batayneh April 29, 2026

April 29, 2026

https://www.icann.org/en/announcements/details/icann-launches-webinar-serie… The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) will host a series of webinars in May 2026 that will provide an overview of specific grounds for objections and appeals, their processes, and timelines for the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round<https://newgtldprogram.icann.org/en>. Each webinar will be presented by an organization with a focus on its specific process and be held twice to accommodate different time zones. All of the webinars will be recorded and include time for questions and answers. Content 14:00–15:00 UTC 6:00–7:00 UTC ICANN will provide a general introduction and overview of what to expect in the objections and appeals process in the 2026 Round. Tuesday, 19 May Register<https://icann.zoom.us/meeting/register/OnJryiDFQw-C77L9mE2siw> Tuesday, 26 May Register<https://icann.zoom.us/meeting/register/Gq9vwYJWQiOqI34Xh64aug> The World Intellectual Property Organization, the Dispute Resolution Service Provider for String Confusion and Legal Rights objections and appeals, will focus on its specific processes and requirements. Wednesday, 20 May Register<https://icann.zoom.us/meeting/register/3UCPIWG-QAGwD9w-ks39YQ> Wednesday, 27 May Register<https://icann.zoom.us/meeting/register/OBMPYfpaQWWWUCEuFmydKA> The International Chamber of Commerce, the Dispute Resolution Service Provider for Limited Public Interest and Community objections and appeals, will focus on its specific processes and requirements. Thursday, 21 May Register<https://icann.zoom.us/meeting/register/gM9mxJukRNGhNAdfvgHuSA> Thursday, 28 May Register<https://icann.zoom.us/meeting/register/YuHWbbMJQQ6u4DjOxp8g9w>

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