The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is gearing up for its 79th public meeting, the ICANN79 Community Forum, scheduled for March 2-7, 2024, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This significant event brings together stakeholders from various corners of the internet ecosystem, offering a valuable platform for discussion, collaboration, and progress on critical issues impacting the online world, particularly relevant to those involved in the domain name industry.
Focus on Outreach, Capacity Building, and Collaboration
This year’s forum emphasizes outreach, capacity building, and showcasing ICANN’s work to a broader global audience. This focus reflects ICANN’s ongoing commitment to fostering inclusivity and ensuring that all voices are heard in the multistakeholder model of internet governance.
The domain name industry plays a vital role in the internet’s infrastructure, and staying abreast of ICANN’s activities and policy discussions is crucial for businesses and individuals involved in this sector. Attending or following the forum provides valuable insights into:
- Emerging trends and challenges affecting the domain name landscape.
- Updates on ICANN’s policies and initiatives that could impact domain name registration, management, and usage.
- Opportunities for collaboration and engagement with other stakeholders in the internet ecosystem.
Key Topics for Domain Name Professionals
The ICANN79 Community Forum features various sessions addressing a diverse range of topics, some of which hold specific significance for domain name professionals:
- Universal Acceptance: This session will delve into initiatives aimed at ensuring all domain names, regardless of language or script, can function seamlessly across the internet. This is crucial for expanding global internet access and promoting inclusivity online.
- Domain Name System (DNS) Abuse: Discussions around strategies to combat common DNS abuses, such as phishing and malware distribution, will be of particular interest to domain name registrars and those involved in domain name security. Understanding these discussions helps navigate the evolving threat landscape and implement appropriate safeguards.
Strategic Planning for the Future
The forum will also address ICANN’s strategic planning for the 2026-2030 fiscal period. This session offers a glimpse into ICANN’s priorities and vision for the future, allowing domain name professionals to anticipate potential changes and adapt their strategies accordingly.
Beyond the Sessions: Additional Opportunities
The ICANN79 Community Forum presents numerous opportunities beyond the scheduled sessions:
- Networking: The event fosters connections with a wide range of stakeholders, including domain name registries, registrars, policymakers, and technical experts. Building these connections can lead to valuable partnerships and collaboration opportunities.
- Learning from Industry Experts: Attending workshops and presentations offered by industry leaders provides valuable insights and practical knowledge applicable to various aspects of the domain name industry.
- Staying Informed: The forum provides an excellent platform to stay updated on the latest developments, trends, and best practices within the domain name space.
ICANN’s Commitment to Multistakeholder Model
ICANN emphasizes its commitment to a multistakeholder model, where all stakeholders, including businesses, governments, technical experts, and civil society organizations, have a voice in shaping internet policies and practices. This model ensures that decisions are made considering diverse perspectives and promoting the overall well-being of the internet community.
Participating in the Forum
The ICANN79 Community Forum offers a unique opportunity for individuals and businesses involved in the domain name industry to engage with a global community, gain valuable insights, and contribute to shaping the future of the internet.
Those interested in participating can register for the event at the ICANN79 Meeting Website: https://meetings.icann.org/. In-person registration closed on February 29th, but virtual registration remains open throughout the event.
Whether attending virtually or in person, the ICANN79 Community Forum provides a valuable platform for domain name professionals to stay informed, connect with the broader community, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on critical issues shaping the internet landscape. By actively engaging with this forum, individuals and businesses can ensure their voices are heard and contribute towards a stable, secure, and accessible internet for all.
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