Dear all, After another long break, we are happy to inform you that we are planning to hold an IRT meeting<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AQB5Ow> during ICANN86. As usual, the meeting will be held in a hybrid format allowing for both in-person and remote participation. The invites will be sent out shortly. The meeting will have the objective to discuss our draft guidelines for Independent Objectors. While we are still in the process of developing the document, we would like to already share what will be included: 1. An overview, providing high-level information on the role of the IO in the Program. 2. Scope of work, outlining exactly what is expected of the IOs and the IO chair. 3. A list of examples as to what constitute “extraordinary circumstances” that would allow an IO to have their objection considered although another objection on the same ground was filed, as well as the process and requirements for such circumstances. 4. The Conflicts of Interest requirements and processes. 5. Information on fees and budget. 6. The expected deliverables. 7. Information on the ALAC and their procedures for filing comments and objections. 8. Information on the practicalities (which we don’t think need to be discussed with the IRT). 9. Reference materials (idem). We are also developing the template to be used by IOs to outline the rationale describing why they filed an objection. The rationales will be published on the Program website and not on a separate website to ensure they stay available for the years to come. For more information on IOs and related previous discussions, please refer to: * Section 4.5.4 of the Applicant Guidebook<https://newgtldprogram-2026-agb.icann.org/en/8-module-4-community-input-obje...> * The Expression of Interest<https://www.icann.org/en/system/files/files/2026-round-independent-objectors...> * This email thread<https://lists.icann.org/hyperkitty/list/subpro-irt@icann.org/thread/LMJ7U5AW...>, concerning the outcomes of Meeting #173<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/EoD-L> We will share the drafts of the guidelines and rationale prior to the meeting, but please let us know if you have any questions at this stage. Otherwise, more to come soon! Best, Elisa