Hi,

This is a message about the actual work of the NCUC and the GNSO.   All speech allowed.

As people here will know, there's been discussion about the possibility of an IDN gTLD Fast Track process.  Edmon Chung of .asia has taken a particular interest in driving the discussion forward within the counsel, and has asked for NCUC input.  Have we taken any stands on this previously?  Do people have any thoughts about it now either way?  I understand the desire to move on IDNs but there are issues concerning undue competitive advantage, how to define non-contentious, etc. that presumably would need to be considered as well...

Thanks,

Bill



-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Edmon Chung
Sent: Thursday, March 19, 2009 7:17 PM
To: 'Council GNSO'
Subject: [council] IDN gTLD Fast Track discussion


Hi Everyone,

Following up on the discussion we had during our wrap up meeting in Mexico, would like to share some thoughts on a possible IDN gTLD Fast Track concept.  From the discussion at that meeting as well as conversations during and after Mexico, it seems like there are a few items that could form a starting point for constructive discussion towards a possible IDN gTLD Fast Track:

1. The New gTLD schedule should not be delayed by an IDN gTLD Fast Track
2. The IDN ccTLD Fast Track schedule should not be delayed by an IDN gTLD Fast Track
3. An IDN gTLD Fast Track should be viewed as a backup plan should the New gTLD schedule be further delayed
4. Work on an IDN gTLD Fast Track should begin in preparation for the case that the New gTLD schedule is further delayed
5. The IDN gTLD Fast Track, if implemented, should:
           - follow closely the process of the IDN ccTLD Fast Track
           - aim to introduce "a limited number of non-contentious" IDN gTLDs
           - be based on the GNSO New gTLD Final Report, including the IDN WG outcomes report
(i.e. should not require additional policy development)
           - encourage stronger protection of rights of others

I think we would be allocating some time to discuss the issue in our upcoming conference call meeting.  Would love to get some feedback and thoughts on the above items before our meeting.

Wondering what people think about the above points...

Edmon




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William J. Drake  
Senior Associate
Centre for International Governance
Graduate Institute of International and
  Development Studies
Geneva, Switzerland
New book: Governing Global Electronic Networks,
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