Governments set priorities for next internet domain expansion in ICANN84 communiqué
In the document, readers will find a strong focus on DNS abuse mitigation, mandatory access mechanisms for domain registration data, and equitable participation in the upcoming round of new top-level domains. The GAC raises concerns about low uptake in the Applicant Support Program, calls for stricter timelines for urgent data-access requests, and urges improvements in transparency and enforcement as the domain space expands.
The Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC) has released its communiqué from ICANN84 in Dublin, outlining the positions and priorities of national governments participating in the global internet governance system. In the latest communiqué, readers will find a focus on strengthening DNS security, ensuring effective access to domain registration data, and promoting equitable participation in the next round of new top-level domains.
The GAC warns that DNS abuse remains a critical concern. Governments said phishing, malware and botnet activity are likely to rise as new domains enter the internet’s naming system. While recent contractual amendments to address abuse were welcomed, the communiqué states that additional policy measures are needed and calls for more transparent, machine-readable compliance reporting.
Registration data access remains a key priority. The GAC reiterated that a permanent, centralised and mandatory system is needed for handling requests for domain ownership information, arguing that voluntary participation by registrars leaves gaps for law enforcement and cybersecurity investigations. The communiqué supports strict timelines for urgent disclosure requests, such as cases involving threats to life or critical infrastructure, and ongoing technical work to authenticate law enforcement authorities.
Governments also turned their attention to the forthcoming round of new generic top-level domains. The communiqué welcomes the finalisation of the Applicant Guidebook but notes concern over the limited uptake in the Applicant Support Program, which is designed to help applicants in underserved regions. The GAC says this raises questions about equitable global participation in the next internet expansion. It also calls for clarity on fees for geographic names and urges the timely resolution of rules on Latin-script diacritics so that applicants can prepare appropriately.
Beyond policy files, the communiqué highlights continued travel and visa barriers that restrict participation from some regions, despite ICANN’s commitments to meeting accessibility. It also confirms adoption of the GAC’s 2025–2026 work plan, new vice-chair elections, and coordination sessions with ICANN’s advisory and supporting bodies.
Taken together, the communiqué signals that governments expect the next expansion of the domain name space to proceed with stronger safeguards, clearer data-access mechanisms and more inclusive global representation.
