ICANN seeks dispute resolution providers for next round of new domain names
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has launched a call for proposals to select dispute resolution providers for the Next Round of new top-level domains, due in April 2026. These providers will handle objections related to trademark rights, public interest, and community concerns in the domain name system.
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has opened a Request for Proposal (RFP) to select one or more Dispute Resolution Service Providers (DRSPs) for the upcoming Next Round of new generic top-level domains (gTLDs), scheduled to launch in April 2026.
What this is about
When organisations apply for new top-level domains (the part after the dot, like .blog or .museum), disagreements can arise over trademarks, potential confusion with existing domains, community interests, or broader public interest concerns. ICANN’s dispute process gives affected parties a formal way to file objections on four defined grounds. Cases are handled by independent DRSPs, and the party that does not prevail may appeal the panel’s decision. The detailed Dispute Resolution Procedure and Objection Appeal Procedure will appear in the Applicant Guidebook for the Next Round.
Who can apply to be a DRSP
This is a public RFP—any qualified organisation can submit a proposal. ICANN may choose one or multiple providers.
- Indications of interest: email dispute-resolution-service-provider-rfp@icann.org with the organisation name, contact person, and contact email.
- Full proposals: must be submitted via ICANN’s sourcing tool by 23:59 UTC on 2 April 2025 (access can be requested via the same email).
Why does this matter?
Reliable, independent dispute resolution is essential for a fair and trusted domain name system. It helps ensure that:
- legitimate applicants aren’t blocked by abusive challenges,
- rights holders and communities can raise valid concerns, and
- final decisions are made by expert, neutral panels with a clear appeal path.
For civil society groups, especially those supporting digital inclusion and linguistic rights, a robust dispute system can protect community-based or language-based TLD bids (including internationalised domain names) from being derailed by unequal power or resources. Fair procedures help smaller NGOs, minority-language communities, and local initiatives secure domain spaces that reflect their identity and serve their users, expanding access and representation on the global internet.
