Other ICANN Consensus Policies

Abstract In addition to the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP), ICANN has established eight other consensus policies which apply to the gTLD spaces under its purview. Consensus policies are the product of policy development processes at the Generic Names Supporting Organization (GNSO) in its function to develop and recommend to the ICANN Board substantive policies relating to generic top-level domains. They are intended to produce a consensus of Internet stakeholders and relate to issues including interoperability, security and stability of the Internet or the registry database for a TLD, the provision of registry services or operations, or the resolution of domain name disputes. Only policies which are developed through the Policy Development Process and receive appropriate approval by the GNSO Council and ICANN board may be considered consensus policies. Consensus policies are incorporated into registry contracts and in the Registrar Accreditation Agreement, ensuring that GNSO recommendations are implemented. These policies apply to different groups of individuals and/or entities and are suited to different purposes, which will be briefly outlined in the sections below.