Session Leader(s): Sally Costerton
Background/ Importance: Understanding
the concept of the public interest within ICANN’s remit been a topic of discussion for many years. In 2013-2014, the Strategy Panel on Public Responsibility Framework explored this topic and, in consultations with the community, proposed the following definition
for the global public interest in relation to the Internet: "ensuring that the Internet becomes, and continues to be, stable, inclusive, and accessible across the globe so that all may enjoy the benefits of a single and open Internet. In addressing its public
responsibility, ICANN must build trust in the Internet and its governance ecosystem." While this definition has been well received, there is a desire to revisit. A high interest session took place at ICANN55, which helped build on previous discussions, but
did not lead to concrete recommendations for next steps. Following ICANN55, the At-Large Advisory Committee created a Working Group to further explore the concept of the public interest. As the organization readies for significant changes in its governance
structure in light of the impending IANA functions stewardship transition, it is important to carry the conversation forward.
Session Goals/Expected Outcomes:
1. Further understand the historical and political nuances of the ‘global public interest’ in various contexts and regions
2. Reach a shared understanding of what the concept of public interest means in the context of ICANN
3. Explore how public interest could be operationalized as the basis for decision-making at ICANN
4. Determine next steps
Relevant Documentation:
Session Format: A panel comprised of members of the ICANN community will lead and moderate the discussion.