Status:
IGF Theme(s) for workshop: Internet Governance for Development [IG4D] cross cutting priority
Main theme question address by workshop: Pending Expansion of the Top Level Domain Space: Q1 and 2
Concise description of the proposed workshop:
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) launched in January 2012 the new generic Top Level Domains (gTLD) program, consisting in expanding considerably the top level domain space for up to 500 new gTLDs. We will probably see the first strings delegated early next year. This program will transform the Internet landscape by multiplying the number of the generic top level domains by 30, and creating new Internet registries and registrars. It will have an important economic effect that can either positively impact the development of the developing countries, or increase the already existing digital, economic and social divide.
The speakers will explain in which case the so called new gTLD program may bring development opportunities to the developing countries’ economy and what are the obstacles that might prevent those countries from the benefit of the economic effect of the top level domain space expansion.
Issues such as application and operation cost, community needs, linguistic and cultural diversity, public interest values, related to the new gTLDs program will be addressed.
Speakers from all regions around the world are chosen for their high level expertise and interest in the Internet domains. The gender balance issue is also carefully considered.
Background Paper:
Name of the organiser(s) of the workshop and their affiliation to various stakeholder groups:
Ms--Fatimata--Seye Sylla--African Regional At-Large Organization (AFRALO)--Civil Society--Africa
Mr--Tijani BEN JEMAA--ICANN African Regional At-Large Organization (AFRALO)--Civil Society--Africa
Have you, or any of your co-organisers, organised an IGF workshop before?: Yes
Please provide link(s) to workshop(s) or report(s):
Provide the names and affiliations of the panellists you are planning to invite:
- Ms Fatimata Saye Sylla, Chair of ICANN AFRALO - (Senegal)
- Mr Zahid Jamil, Lawyer - (Pakistan)
- Ms Avri DORIA, Teacher and consultant - (USA)
- Mr Aziz Hilali, Teacher - (Morocco)
- Ms Hong Xue, Teacher and Lawyer - (China)
- Mr Dev Anand Teelucksingh, -(Trinidad & Tobago)
- Ms Sandra Hoferichter, - (Germay)
- Mr Mohamed Al-Bashir, ccTLD Operator - (Qatar)
Name of Remote Moderator(s):
Olivier Crépin Leblond, - (France)