The pace of finalizing the details for the next new gTLD application round is increasing, with a group of policy-makers close to resolving some of the ICANN board's concerns.



This "small team" of GNSO members, supported by a couple of ICANN directors, have created recommendations to aid the board in approving the 38 community recommendations that it hasn't yet adopted.

In March, the board approved 98 new gTLDS, but had reservations about issues such as the proposed registry back-end evaluation program, round-based applications, and content policing. It's been suggested that a "steady state" application process may be employed, with or without FCFS, to make planning, hiring, and software development more predictable. The next application process will likely be round-based.

The GNSO may suggest a PDP that considers how the new gTLD program could operate over the long term. Content policing is another issue causing concern for the board, with registries potentially being able to add Registry Voluntary Commitments (RVCs) to their contracts.

The board is worried this may break its 2016 bylaws. The small group has met nine times since late March to resolve these board concerns ahead of the mid-year ICANN 77 meeting in Washington DC.

The GNSO (Generic Names Supporting Organization) is considering the development of a Policy Development Process (PDP) for the long-term operation of the new gTLD (generic top-level domain) program. This initiative aims to ensure effective governance and management of the program, which allows for the introduction of new domain extensions beyond the familiar .com, .net, and .org.

The GNSO, which is part of ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), is responsible for developing and recommending policies for generic domain names. The PDP is a formal process used by the GNSO to establish policies regarding various aspects of domain name operations.

With regards to the new gTLD program, the GNSO recognizes the need for ongoing evaluation and improvement to support its long-term viability. The PDP under consideration would provide a framework for reviewing and refining policies related to the introduction, management, and operation of new gTLDs.

By establishing a PDP, the GNSO aims to ensure that all interested stakeholders have an opportunity to contribute to policy development, fostering transparency and accountability in decision-making processes. The PDP would involve a series of steps, including the formation of a working group, public comment periods, and community discussion, ultimately leading to the development of recommendations for policy changes.

This proactive approach by the GNSO reflects a commitment to the continuous evolution of the new gTLD program to meet the changing needs and demands of the internet community.