Video summary
The International Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) provides a transparent public comment process designed to allow everyone to influence policies governing the domain name system. This contribution method is intentionally simple and open to all individuals, ensuring that diverse voices can participate in shaping internet governance. To begin this process, users are encouraged to create an account on the ICANN homepage or log into their existing credentials, which grants them access to view current public comment proceedings. These proceedings, whether closed, currently open, or upcoming, typically remain active for at least forty days, providing a substantial window for public engagement.
Once registered, participants can browse and select specific open proposals that interest them, reading the documents to better understand the underlying issues and the rationale behind each suggestion. Before submitting formal comments, it is recommended to utilize the additional resources available on each proceeding's webpage to ensure well-informed feedback. The process welcomes all types of input; individuals may express support for a proposal they agree with, offer suggestions to improve existing drafts, or voice disagreement with specific aspects of a policy. This inclusive approach ensures that both positive reinforcement and constructive criticism are valued equally in the decision-making framework.
After comments are submitted, ICANN reviews all submissions to identify key themes and publishes a summary report that synthesizes the public feedback. The team responsible for opening the proceeding then addresses this input and proposes next steps tailored to the specific issue at hand. These subsequent actions vary depending on the nature of the policy question and the consensus reached during the review period. Detailed information regarding these outcomes can be found in the outcome section of the proceedings webpage once the comment period has officially closed, offering transparency on how public input was utilized.
For those seeking further details or wishing to engage with this vital democratic process within the internet community, the official website ic.org serves as the primary resource for learning more. By participating in these public comments, individuals play a direct role in maintaining a stable, secure, and globally accessible domain name system that reflects the needs of the international community. The entire workflow is designed to be accessible and straightforward, removing barriers to entry so that anyone with an internet connection can contribute their perspective to global policy discussions.
Read the full video transcript
ICAN's public comment process offers
everyone the opportunity to influence
domain name system policy. Contributing
to a public comment proceeding is simple
and open to all. To get started, create
an account on the ICAN homepage or log
into your existing account. Once signed
up, you can view all public comment
proceedings. Closed, open, and upcoming
proceedings typically remain open for at
least 40 days. Select and read the open
proposals you are interested in and
provide your input to better understand
the proposals and the rationale for
them. Use the additional resources
available on each proceeding web page
before submitting comments.
All feedback is welcome. If you agree
with a proposal, voice your support. If
you have suggestions to improve a
proposal or disagree with it, we want to
hear from you. I can reviews all
submissions, identifies key themes, and
publishes a summary report. The team
that opened the proceeding addresses the
input, and proposes next steps. Next
steps vary depending on the issue. You
can find more information in the outcome
section of the proceedings web page
after it was closed.
Visit ic.org to learn more.