The ICANN bylaws require a public comment period of 20 days following the initiation of a gNSO Policy-Development Process (PDP). <http://www.icann.org/general/archive-bylaws/bylaws-08apr05.htm#AnnexA>

ICANN has opened a Public Comment Forum for the below Terms of Reference for New gTLDs . The "Issues Report" for this PDP is available at <http://gnso.icann.org/issues/new-gtlds/gnso-issues-rpt-gtlds-05dec05.pdf>.

The public comment period is from 6 December 2005 to 31 January 2005. Comments may be submitted to the email address <new-gtlds-pdp-comments@icann.org> .

Comments submitted may be viewed at <http://forum.icann.org/lists/new-gtlds-pdp-comments>

gNSO Home Page
Call for comments on gNSO web site

Terms of reference for new gTLDs

Should new generic top level domain names be introduced?
1. Given the information provided here and any other relevant information available to the GNSO, the GNSO should assess whether there is sufficient support within the Internet community to enable the introduction of new top level domains. If this is the case the following additional terms of reference are applicable.
Selection Criteria for New Top Level Domains
1. Taking into account the existing selection criteria from previous top level domain application processes and relevant criteria in registry services re-allocations, develop modified or new criteria which specifically address ICANN's goals of expanding the use and usability of the Internet. In particular, examine ways in which the allocation of new top level domains can meet demands for broader use of the Internet in developing countries.
2. Examine whether preferential selection criteria (e.g. sponsored) could be developed which would encourage new and innovative ways of addressing the needs of Internet users.
3. Examine whether additional criteria need to be developed which address ICANN's goals of ensuring the security and stability of the Internet.
Allocation Methods for New Top Level Domains
1. Using the experience gained in previous rounds, develop allocation methods for selecting new top level domain names.
2. Examine the full range of allocation methods including auctions, ballots, first-come first-served and comparative evaluation to determine the methods of allocation that best enhance user choice while not compromising predictability and stability.
3. Examine how allocation methods could be used to achieve ICANN's goals of fostering competition in domain name registration services and encouraging a diverse range of registry services providers.
Policy to Guide Contractual Conditions for New Top Level Domains
1. Using the experience of previous rounds of top level domain name application processes and the recent amendments to registry services agreements, develop policies to guide the contractual criteria which are publicly available prior to any application rounds.
2. Determine what policies are necessary to provide security and stability of registry services.
3. Determine appropriate policies to guide a contractual compliance programme for registry services.