Discovering ICANN and ITU Roles in Internet Governance – Ahmad Umair Suhaidi

NetMission Ambassador Blog Posts

In an era of volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA), Internet governance is a complex domain that involves the development and application of shared principles, norms, rules, decision-making procedures, and programs that shape the evolution and use of the Internet. Key players in this domain include the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). While both organizations are pivotal in maintaining the stability, security, and interoperability of the global Internet, they fulfill distinct roles and missions. The ITU focuses on international telecommunications standards and policies, while ICANN manages domain name systems and IP address allocations to ensure a seamless and accessible Internet experience.

International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

The ITU, which was established in 1865, is one of the oldest international organizations and has been pivotal in global telecommunications. The ITU is an agency of the United Nations responsible for issues related to information and communication technologies. Its mission is to connect all people, wherever they live and whatever their means. The ITU’s structure includes three main sectors. They are radiocommunication, telecommunication standardization, and telecommunication development.

In the context of Internet governance, the ITU plays a significant role in standardization and regulation, spectrum management, and efforts to bridge the digital divide. ITU organizes the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Forum, in which different stakeholders can engage, and is in charge of the WSIS action lines follow-up. The WSIS, organized by the ITU Council in two phases, brought us the Geneva Declaration and the 2005 Tunis Agenda. WSIS+20 is the review of the mandate that resulted from the Tunis Agenda.

Some initiatives that highlight ITU’s commitments and contributions to Internet governance issues include the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), ITU’s work in cybersecurity, and capacity building, such as the ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Program.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)

ICANN, on the other hand, was formed in 1998 to manage the Internet’s unique identifiers, such as domain names and IP addresses. It is a nonprofit organization that coordinates the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to the namespaces and numerical spaces of the Internet. ICANN’s mission includes managing the Domain Name System (DNS), allocating IP addresses, and developing policies through a multistakeholder model. This model involves various stakeholders, including governments, private sector, civil society, students, and technical experts.

Collaboration and Tensions

ICANN as an organization that champions the multistakeholder model in Internet governance, often contrasts sharply with ITU’s multilateral approach. This dynamic is further complicated by developments in the Global Digital Compact (GDC) process, and the upcoming renewal of the mandate of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF). Originating from the 2005 Tunis Agenda during the second phase of the WSIS forum, the IGF is in its third mandate with discussions on its extension in the upcoming WSIS+20 review process in 2025.

As digital governance evolves, it is crucial to reassess the concept of cooperation in Internet governance. There is not only potential for ITU and ICANN to be more integral to the governance of the global Internet, but the broader multistakeholder community must be part of the process to ensure the stability, security, and interoperability of the Internet. The ongoing importance of ITU and ICANN in shaping its future cannot be overstated. Their efforts will remain vital in navigating the complexities of Internet governance in a connected world.

Written by Ahmad Umair Suhaidi (Edited on 2024-08-10)

(Disclaimer: Please note that the views expressed in this article are the author’s personal opinions and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of any organization or institution.)

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