Input on the development of Transparency and Accountability Management Operating Principles [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]

["Szyndler, Paul" <Paul.Szyndler@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

We note ICANN's announcement of 16 October 2006 seeking community input
in the development of transparency and accountability principles, though
would like to express some concerns regarding the limited process and
timeframe in which this consultation is being undertaken.

 

As a unique model in international, multi-stakeholder governance, it is
critical that ICANN maintain the trust and cooperation of stakeholders
currently engaged within its framework.  Establishing appropriate levels
of openness, transparency and accountability in decision-making
processes is vital to retaining this stakeholder trust.

 

Noting this, we welcome ICANN's goal of developing processes and
procedures that encourage improved transparency and accountability. We
also note this is consistent with Points 2 and 3 of ICANN's Affirmation
of Responsibilities under the Joint Project Agreement with the US
Department of Commerce.

 

The development of Management Operating Principles provides an ideal
opportunity for ICANN to fully explore the strengths of a model that
encourages the active participation of a broad range of stakeholders. It
would also be a timely application of Point 6 of the Affirmation of
Responsibilities in which ICANN affirmed and agreed to maintain and
improve its multi-stakeholder model and the global participation of all
stakeholders.

 

Consistent with this, we see considerable merit in the proposal from
Bill Graham of Canada for an extension of the timeframe for consultation
to allow constituencies to develop meaningful, considered advice and to
allow more detailed examination of the issues raised by Canada by GAC at
the forthcoming meeting in Sao Paulo.

 

Such an extension would also allow:

*       other constituencies to develop considered policy responses, 

*        possible cross-constituency discussion, and 

*        interested parties to develop a better understanding of issues
through dialogue with ICANN Board members and staff in Sao Paulo.

 

We would also like to support Canada's request that ICANN develop a
short discussion paper, outlining the ICANN Board's intentions and goals
in developing a set of Management Operating Principles. Such an approach
would be consistent with policy-development processes currently
implemented within the gNSO, ccNSO and GAC.

   

Brenton Thomas

Australian GAC Representative

 
 
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