ICANN has closed the application window for its 2026 New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program Round, receiving more than 1,600 primary applications. The final number will depend on whether applicants complete the required evaluation fee payments, after which ICANN will begin reviewing the applications.
Uzbekistan has approved 49 countries and territories as providing an adequate level of personal data protection, establishing a legal basis for certain cross-border transfers and processing of personal data.
France’s Constitutional Council has struck down legislation that would have banned children under 15 from accessing social media, finding that the measure disproportionately restricted their freedom of expression and communication. The government is now expected to prepare a revised proposal that complies with the ruling and the EU’s regulatory framework.
Montenegro has launched a process to establish a state-owned company that would manage the country’s .me domain, seeking greater control over a strategic digital resource and a larger share of the revenues it generates.
The Internet Freedom Foundation has published a factsheet on children’s use of social media in India, outlining legal and policy considerations and recommending public consultation before any age‑based access restrictions are introduced.
The Internet Governance Forum Secretariat has published the workshop proposals submitted for consideration for the IGF 2026 programme following its public call.
A new presidential memorandum allows vetted US private companies to carry out cyber surveillance and offensive operations against foreign transnational criminal organisations under federal oversight.
The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has published an updated Recommendation defining how developers should use ARIA attributes in HTML. The specification is intended to help developers build web interfaces that can be better understood and used by people relying on assistive technologies such as screen readers.
New findings from INTERPOL and Paradigm Initiative highlight the growing use of artificial intelligence in cybercrime across Africa and the need for locally developed safeguards that protect digital rights.
AFRINIC has opened a second community consultation on proposed amendments to its Constitution, with feedback accepted until 21 August 2026.
Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) is a project co-funded by the European Union.
