ICANN launches webinar series on objections and appeals in 2026 domain round
A new ICANN webinar series will explain how objections and appeals will work in the upcoming 2026 round of domain name applications.
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has announced a webinar series focused on the objections and appeals processes for the New gTLD Program: 2026 Round.
The sessions, scheduled for May 2026, will explain how stakeholders can challenge or respond to applications for new domain names. In the gTLD process, objections allow parties to raise concerns about applications, for example if a proposed domain name conflicts with existing rights or public interest considerations.
The series will begin with an overview session led by ICANN, outlining the overall structure, timelines, and expectations for objections and appeals.
Subsequent sessions will be delivered by dispute resolution providers, including the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). These organisations will explain specific procedures related to different types of objections, such as legal rights, string confusion, public interest, and community-based claims.
Each webinar will be held twice to accommodate different time zones and will include question-and-answer segments. Recordings will also be made available.
The initiative is part of ICANN’s preparation for the 2026 application round, aimed at helping participants understand the rules and processes governing domain name allocation.
| Content | 14:00–15:00 UTC | 6:00–7:00 UTC |
|---|---|---|
| ICANN will provide a general introduction and overview of what to expect in the objections and appeals process in the 2026 Round. | Tuesday, 19 May Register | Tuesday, 26 May Register |
| The World Intellectual Property Organization, the Dispute Resolution Service Provider for String Confusion and Legal Rights objections and appeals, will focus on its specific processes and requirements. | Wednesday, 20 May Register | Wednesday, 27 May Register |
| The International Chamber of Commerce, the Dispute Resolution Service Provider for Limited Public Interest and Community objections and appeals, will focus on its specific processes and requirements. | Thursday, 21 May Register | Thursday, 28 May Register |
