ICANN is the non-profit body responsible for coordinating the global Internet’s naming system, particularly the Domain Name System (DNS). It ensures that every domain name (like .in, .com, or script-based TLDs) maps correctly to IP addresses, keeping the Internet functional and interoperable. ICANN operates on a bottom-up, multistakeholder model, allowing diverse global voices to influence decisions – including those from India.
ICANN meets thrice every year physically with options for online participation. ICANN’s hybrid four-day Policy Forum was focused on current policy development work, outreach, and daily opportunities to network with the community. The 83rd public meeting was held at Prague, Czech Republic, during 9-12 June, bringing together a diverse global community of Internet stakeholders – from technical experts and governments to civil society and private sector leaders. These meetings are pivotal in shaping the policies and processes that ensure the stable, secure, and unified operation of the Internet’s unique identifier systems – domain names, IP addresses, and protocols.
As part of our continued commitment to Internet governance and inclusive digital growth, the India Internet Foundation actively follows ICANN developments and supports awareness and participation from Indian stakeholders.
Key Highlights from ICANN 83
ICANN 83 included policy discussions, technical sessions, working group updates, and stakeholder engagement forums. Highlights included:
- Celebration of 10 Years of the UASG (Universal Acceptance Steering Group)
A dedicated session marked a decade of work toward a multilingual and inclusive Internet. UA ensures that all domain names and email addresses – in any language or script – work correctly across systems. - Ongoing Work on DNS Abuse and Domain Security
Several sessions explored the growing concern around DNS abuse, phishing, and malware, with calls for improved reporting, monitoring, and mitigation strategies. - Policy Development Processes (PDPs)
Topics included subsequent rounds of new gTLDs, rights protection mechanisms, and updates from Supporting Organizations (SOs) and Advisory Committees (ACs). - Focus on Regional Engagement and Inclusion
ICANN reiterated its focus on empowering regional Internet communities, including efforts to engage more stakeholders from Asia-Pacific, especially India.
Why ICANN Matters for India
India, with its diverse linguistic and digital landscape, has much to gain from participating in ICANN’s processes:
- Encouraging local language domain names and email addresses through Universal Acceptance.
- Ensuring fair representation in global Internet policy making.
- Building technical capacity and supporting local DNS infrastructure.
As the Internet continues to evolve, so must our efforts to ensure it remains open, multilingual, and accessible to all. ICANN 83 reaffirmed the importance of collaboration, technical preparedness, and inclusive policymaking. For India, this is not just a moment of observation, but a call to active participation. IIFON remains committed to driving these conversations forward – empowering communities, fostering innovation, and ensuring that India’s digital voice is heard on the global stage.