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ccTLD Redelegation Step-by-Step Overview


In response to requests from many parts of the Internet community, especially from developing countries, ICANN is posting the following high-level step-by-step overview of the redelegation process.

This is a high-level overview of the steps involved in redelegation of a country-code top-level domain (ccTLD). Each ccTLD and each country present situations that are unique. Therefore, the circumstances of each redelegation request, including its urgency and degree to which the request is accepted by all affected parties, may affect the exact procedures; that is, rarely are two redelegation situations exactly the same. Complications could arise, particularly with Step 3, depending upon each particular situation and the degree to which the request conforms to existing policy. The purpose of these procedures is to ensure that redelegations occur according to existing global policies.

This overview, however, gives the basic steps that should be expected in any redelegation. Please check back regularly for updated information.

Step 1. The entity seeking redelegation sends to IANA Root Management <root-mgmt@iana.org> the template and other information described in Attachment A.

Step 2. The IANA reviews materials and tests template data:

After sending the confirmation and providing a transaction number, the IANA reviews the redelegation request and materials provided under Attachment A and takes appropriate verification steps. Note that reviewing relevant materials can take time, depending on each individual case. In cases involving nameserver changes, the IANA will test all nameservers to ensure they are properly configured according to the relevant technical documents.

Step 3. The IANA requests confirmation of the redelegation from existing contacts:

The IANA will request confirmation of the redelegation from the existing administrative and technical contacts. Assuming such confirmation, the redelegation process will proceed. If confirmation is not received for any reason, further consultation will be necessary that could prolong the redelegation until a satisfactory resolution is reached.

ICANN's experience suggests that each situation presents unique problems and challenges. ICANN can assist countries and ccTLDs in addressing these challenges.

Step 4. The IANA  prepares report for Board consideration:

Following the above steps, the IANA prepares a report detailing the information provided to support the redelegation, and the process followed in handling the redelegation request. Where necessary, the ICANN Board will maintain confidentiality.

Step 5. The IANA issues a report to the U.S. Department of Commerce and Implements changes once approved:

Once all above steps are completed, an IANA report is prepared and submitted to the US Department of Commerce. Once approval is received from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the requested changes that define the redelegation will be implemented.

Step 6. The new delegee verifies changes:

After receiving IANA's notification that the changes were made, it is recommended that the new delegee verify independently that the changes were made correctly. IANA Root Management <root-mgmt@iana.org> should be notified of any problems detected, quoting the transaction number.


Attachment A

The redelegation process begins with the transmittal of certain information to IANA/ICANN. The necessary information consists of the following:

a) Template:

The completed template, found at <http://www.iana.org/cctld/cctld-template.txt> is sent to IANA Root Management <root-mgmt@iana.org>. The e-mail format must be plain text. Please do not use HTML or RTF format.

b) Documentation showing that the redelegation serves the interests of the Local Internet Community:

Documentation describing the basis for the redelegation, and why it is consistent with the interests of the local Internet community. This should include demonstration of local support, as well as a summary of the intended operation of the domain name.

c) Documentation regarding the skills of the organization:

Documentation establishing that the organization to which the redelegation is sought has the appropriate technical and other skills to operate a TLD registry.

d) Legal company documents:

Legal documentation demonstrating the legal authenticity, status, and character of the proposed organization.

e) Government contact:

If not included in the other materials, please provide documentation indicating that the appropriate Government official(s) has been informed about the upcoming redelegation.

 

Notes:

1. These materials can be sent as pdf-files (200 dpi, black and white), by postal services, or by both.

2. The process will be simplified if materials are submitted in the English language. Unfortunately, due to the enormous numbers of languages throughout the world in which respective ccTLDs operate, the IANA does not have the resources or ability to ensure professional translations of the relevant documents. Please contact IANA Root Management <root-mgmt@iana.org> if there are any questions.

3. Subsequent to receiving the documentation, the contacts and the requestor will receive a confirmation of receipt with a transaction number. This transaction number should be used for all future communications about the transaction.

(19 June 2002)


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Page Updated 19-Jun-2002
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