Proposed PDP on protection of IGO Names

["Zaparazzi" <info@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I write this as a former longstanding ICANN GNSO Council member who was
active in the development of policy for new TLDs.
 
Position on the key question of the public comment
It is essential that the GNSO start a PDP on the issue of the protection of
names of IGOs.
 
Rationale
This rationale refers only to protection at the top level.
 
There are two fundamental issues in this debate one of principle and one of
pragmatism.
1. How does ICANN serve the public interest?
2. Is it possible to create an objective rule to cover which IGOs are
protected and which not?
 
Public Interest
ICANN must serve the public interest. Adding to opportunity for fraud and
the diversion of donations by not protecting IGOs is against the public
interest. Conclusion: Start a PDP
 
Objective rule - which IGOs?
An objective rule is possible along the lines of:
- a treaty organisation of sovereign member states
- protection under international law such as the Paris Convention.
Conclusion: Start a PDP
 
Note
No one currently on the GNSO Council is an expert qualified to create such
an objective rule.
Outside expert help will be required.
 
Philip Sheppard
Zaparazzi sprl