The Number Resource Organisation publishes a revised framework for RIR governance
The Number Resource Organization has published a third draft of the proposed Regional Internet Registry Governance Document, introducing changes to how regional Internet registries could be recognised, audited, supported during crises and, if necessary, derecognised.
The Number Resource Organization Number Council (NRO NC) has published a revised draft of the document that would replace the existing Internet Coordination Policy-2 (ICP-2) framework governing the recognition and oversight of Regional Internet Registries (RIRs).
RIRs are organisations responsible for distributing internet number resources, such as IP addresses, within different regions of the world. The proposed governance document sets out how existing RIRs would be overseen and how a new RIR could be recognised.
The third version, developed after community feedback, introduces clearer definitions and decision-making procedures. It also restructures the process for recognising an RIR, including a requirement for support from two-thirds of existing RIRs, conflict-of-interest disclosures and greater transparency around assessments and decisions.
The draft also establishes a more detailed system for audits and compliance. Regular audits would take place every five years, while a separate Compliance Review process could be launched when specific concerns arise. Where problems are identified, the framework places emphasis on rehabilitation through a formal plan rather than immediately removing recognition.
The document also updates procedures for situations in which an RIR experiences a serious operational disruption. A Temporary Emergency Continuity Arrangement could be introduced to maintain essential services, with a 90-day limit and additional transparency requirements.
The proposed Derecognition process, which would be used when an RIR is no longer able to meet the requirements of the framework, has also been expanded. The revised approach prioritises rehabilitation, sets clearer roles for ICANN and the RIR community, and requires decisions and supporting documents to be made public.
The draft further includes safeguards preventing amendments to the governance document while an emergency continuity arrangement is in place or while a derecognition proposal is pending.
