Community Feedback Shapes the Future of RIR Governance Policies

The process to revamp the Regional Internet Registries (RIR) governance framework has taken a significant step forward as the second round of consultations on the revised draft “Governance Document for the Recognition, Operation, and Derecognition of Regional Internet Registries” (RIR Governance Document) concluded on November 7, 2025. This updated governance framework is designed to replace the existing Internet Coordination Policy 2 (ICP-2). The consultation period ran from August 28 to November 7, offering the global internet community another opportunity to provide vital feedback for refining the draft.

Key Takeaways from the Second Consultation

The second consultation emphasized whether the revised draft addressed the concerns and questions raised during the first round held between April 14 and May 27, 2025. Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) played an active role, with each hosting at least one interactive session for their respective communities. Furthermore, additional resources and discussions were made available for ICANN communities, ensuring broad engagement across the various stakeholders of internet infrastructure. Public Comment sessions organized by ICANN paralleled the process, providing another channel for valuable input.

Stakeholder participation held a pivotal role in ensuring that all necessary feedback was gathered. The process reinforced the collaborative spirit that underpins global internet governance. For those interested, the NRO website has made archives of all sessions readily accessible, further enhancing transparency. With a strong focus on inclusion and community involvement, this approach demonstrates the commitment of the NRO NC to building a robust, well-informed policy update.

Next Steps: Reviewing Community Feedback

The Number Resource Organization Number Council (NRO NC), which also serves as the Address Supporting Organization Address Council (ASO AC), is now tasked with reviewing all feedback received. Input from RIR communities, as well as participants in the ICANN Public Comment process, will be analyzed meticulously to identify whether further amendments or additional rounds of consultation are needed. This inclusive and iterative approach ensures that the RIR Governance Document will adequately address stakeholder concerns before replacing ICP-2.

The outcomes from these consultations not only impact RIR operations but also have broader implications for internet governance, demonstrating how policies are shaped collaboratively between regional and global communities. The NRO NC expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the consultations, underscoring the importance of collective insight in evolving internet coordination policies.

The Role of Collaborative Internet Governance

In his reflection on the process, Hervé Clément, Chair of the NRO Number Council and Head of the Naming, Addressing, and Numbering Department at Orange, highlighted the significance of community feedback in shaping governance frameworks. The dedication shown by various stakeholders to contribute comments and suggestions highlights the dynamic and participative nature of internet governance. As the internet continues to grow in complexity, ensuring fair and efficient management of resources like IP addresses through updated and inclusive policies is critical.

The success of this multi-stakeholder process, fostered by tools such as public consultations and open forums, sets a valuable precedent for the future of internet governance. The revisions to the RIR Governance Document are a tangible example of the power of collaboration, where diverse regional entities join forces to address global challenges in connectivity and coordination. By welcoming and integrating community perspectives, the NRO remains committed to a transparent and adaptive governance model that aligns with rapidly evolving technological and regulatory needs.