Issue

Protection of Certain International Organization Names in all gTLDs

Upcoming Important Dates

31 May 2013 – Opening of Public Forum for comments on Working Group Initial Report

Summary

The GNSO Council has initiated a Policy Development Process (PDP) to evaluate the need to develop policy recommendations, as well as provide additional permanent special protections at the top and second level in all gTLDs, for the names and acronyms of certain International Government Organizations (IGOs) and International Non-Government Organizations (INGOs), including the International Committee of the Red Cross, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the American Red Cross (collectively, the “RCRC”) and the International Olympic Committee (“IOC”).

The PDP Working Group (WG) is continuing its deliberations on considering possible permanent protections for the IOC and RCRC names in all gTLDs,[1] as well as additional special protections in all gTLDs for the names of IGOs and other INGOs that are protected by international treaties and national laws in multiple jurisdictions.

The GAC has provided formal advice to the Board and also engaged the GNSO with regard to these issues.[2]

After considering specific issues outlined in its charter, including an evaluation of the existing scope of legal protection for the names of IGOs and INGOs under international law, the WG is currently considering proposals to protect IGO, IOC, and RCRC names which are consistent with the GAC advice. The WG is planning to publish its Initial Report for public comment by 31 May 2013. The Report will include, as well as solicit, public comments on policy recommendation options currently being considered by the WG for any necessary additional special protections for the names of certain IGOs and INGOs.

ALAC Engagement Opportunity Status

The WG is open to all interested parties. Additional opportunities for input will occur such as a public comment forum on the policy recommendations prior to Board consideration, provided these are adopted by the GNSO Council.

Additional Information

ALAC Related Documents

[1] The GNSO Council adopted the separate GNSO IOC/RC Drafting Team’s recommendations at its 20 December meeting to protect the IOC and RCRC names at the second level of the first round of new gTLDs.

[2] Links to the specific relevant GAC documents are provided on the GAC website.

At-Large Policy Advice Development

At-Large Policy Development Early Engagement: Protection of Certain International Organization Names in all gTLDs Workspace - May 2013