A Council of Europe analysis on ICANN's procedures and policies in the light of human rights, fundamental freedoms and democratic values

Abstract

This report focuses on the meaning of ICANN’s global public interest responsibilities from an international human rights perspective. The report aims at clarifying the role and responsibilities of states in securing human rights in ICANN mechanisms and procedures; and how States can support this multi-stakeholder model in a way that better guarantees to serve the global public interest. The concept of serving the global public interest is vague, providing neither clear guidance nor constraint on ICANN’s action. It is therefore important to flesh it out in order to strengthen accountability and transparency in ICANN’s multi-stakeholder model.