Comments from the Arab Team for domain names and Internet Issues on DAGv4

[ibaa oueichek <ibaa.oueichek@xxxxxxxxx>]

A- Regarding background checks
The new DAG contained detailed terms for background checks about the
applicants and their affiliated parties. The conditions of this
background check contain several terms which are ambiguous, do not
have clear definition, and are prone to subjective interpretation.
This could provide attack vectors for third parties seeking to
interfere with, delay, or even block specific applications. It is
recommended that clear and internationally recognized definitions and
measures be included in this section.

B- Regarding Vertical Integration
The addition of the vertical integration rules to the DAG may have
negative consequences on applicants who seek to hire third parties to
provide backend registry services. The effective choice becomes
extremely limited.
We strongly believe that requirements on vertical integration should
be removed to avoid this problem.

C- Regarding Fee structure–
Consistent with the advice of the GAC set forth in their Brussels
communication, ICANN should “set technical and other requirements,
including cost considerations, at a reasonable and proportionate level
in order not to exclude developing country stakeholders from
participating in the new gTLD-process.”
In that respect, we welcome the recent initiative from ICANN(tbv) to
initiate a discussion on possible support for applications from
developing countries. We believe that the results of the WG report
should be taken into consideration within the final DAG.


On Behalf of the team

Dr. Ibaa Oueichek

Chairman of the Arab Team for domain names and Internet issues