[gnso-lockpdp-wg] For your review and feedback - options to address settlement
Dear All, As discussed during our last meeting, please find below the two options in relation to settlement under consideration, as well as some of the notes reflecting our discussion. Although option A received the most support in response to the survey, following further discussion during the meeting, it seems that there are some strong views in support of option B, while the support for option A is perceived to be weaker. As a result, those on the call appear to be leaning towards favouring option B (as modified below) for inclusion in the Final Report. If there is disagreement with this approach, you are encouraged to share your views with the mailing list ahead of the next meeting. Note, in reviewing preliminary recommendation #10, which is linked to this issue, it looks like we may need to update the language to reflect that a transfer can only be carried out once the UDRP has been dismissed, so replacing 'the registrar must remove any lock preventing a transfer or cancellation within 2 Business days of confirmation of the settlement by both Parties' with 'the registrar must remove any lock preventing a transfer or cancellation within 2 Business days of confirmation of the settlement by both Parties and confirmation of the dismissal by the UDRP Provider (noting that such confirmation of automatic dismissal may be included in the original order issued by the Provider informing the Registrar of the suspension). If my assumption is incorrect or you have other suggestions on how to address this issue, please feel free to share your comments / suggestions with the mailing list. With best regards, Marika Settlement Options under consideration Option A: (1) parties ask for suspension, (2) parties settle, (3) parties inform provider, (4) provider issues order to registrar to change the holder details or delete the domain name, (5) that change or deletion happens, (6) complainant confirms change or deletion is complete, and (7) provider dismisses the case. Note UDRP Providers noted that no transfer is allowed until the case is dismissed which, should this option be supported, would mean that step 7 may need to be added to step 4. Option B (as updated during the last meeting) (1) parties ask for suspension (suspension request includes automatic dismissal when the suspension period is up), (2) provider issues order allowing registrar to unlock for the sole purpose of (whatever the settlement is), (3) parties settle), (4) parties request the registrar to implement the settlement agreement - in case of a settlement in favor of the complainant, by moving the domain name to the control of the complainant where it shall remain locked pending the receipt of a dismissal from the provider when the domain name will be unlocked, and (4) provider dismisses case automatically with no further action needed (if settlement discussions break down, either party can request that the case be reinstated before automatic dismissal). Issues discussed during the last meeting: · Registrar does not have relationship with Complainant, but has received a copy of the complaint that contains the relevant information · UDRP Provider does not have relationship with Respondent, but information should have been verified by the registrar · If UDRP Provider is responsible for confirming¹ settlement, registrars need to be aware that this will not absolve them from any responsibility under the UDRP · Transfer is not allowed until UDRP case is dismissed · Settlement can also include agreement that domain name registration stays with respondent (i.e. does not always involve a transfer) · Provider is administrative body, does not have legal authority to order¹ transfer · If option A would become the new process (part of UDRP rules or in the form of an advisory), wouldn¹t it become enforceable on registrars (via ICANN Compliance)? Note, this recommendation is linked to Preliminary Recommendation #10: In the case of suspension of a proceeding (when the parties have agreed to a settlement), the UDRP Provider informs the Registrar of the Suspension, including the expected duration of the suspension. Should both parties come to a settlement, which would involve a transfer, cancellation or agreement that the registration will remain with the Respondent, the registrar must remove any lock preventing a transfer or cancellation within 2 Business days of confirmation of the settlement by both Parties. Attachment:
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