Let Your Voice be Heard on IANA Transition

Nearly 17 months ago, the National Telecommunications & Information Administration kicked off activities to complete the privatization of the Internet Domain Name System (DNS) as promised in 1998 by transitioning our stewardship role over certain technical functions related to the DNS. We have reached an important milestone in that process as the two working groups tasked with developing proposals related to the transition have released them for final comment. These technical functions, known as the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) functions, play an important but limited role in how the DNS and Internet operate.

In recent days both the IANA Stewardship Transition Coordination Group (ICG) and the Cross Community Working Group (CCWG) on Enhancing ICANN Accountability have posted their proposals for review and final public comment. Comments are due September 8, 2015, for the ICG’s proposal and September 12, 2015, for the CCWG’s proposal. I urge all parties with an interest in the IANA transition to review these proposals and provide feedback to the working groups. This is the best way to make your voice heard and make a difference. It is particularly important that stakeholders everywhere evaluate whether these plans meet the criteria that we have said must be part of the transition. I greatly appreciate the time and effort the community has put into developing these proposals. With the participation of as many stakeholders as possible, I am confident that this transition will result in a stronger ICANN and an Internet that will continue to grow and thrive throughout the world.