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Beckstrom: "ICANN is functioning properly [because] the Internet is functioning properly"

icann ceo rod beckstrom
Forget about problems like cybersquatting, unethical registrar practices, and the blatant commercialization of domains ICANN has allowed to go on for years. Oh no, everything is fine at the California organization. In a recent statement, new CEO Rod Beckstrom eased all doubts:

There will always be different voices out there, but the ultimate proof that ICANN is functioning properly is that the Internet is functioning properly.

Really, Mr. Beckstrom? Really? I think ICANN’s new leader needs to learn more about his audience. Domainers are smart people who know their trade well. They understand the web, its history, and many are also adept server admins and programmers. Who does Beckstrom think he is speaking to, primary school children?

The CEO may have just started, but he needs to learn that a little fast talk isn’t enough to quell the worries of the domaining world. Many notables, including Congress and the EU, have criticized the organization’s performance and structure. And their attacks have been fair and certainly well overdue.

Thus far, ICANN has offered no real explanation for its actions over the years. It has defended its current setup, but never bothered to explain why its current structure is in the best interest of Internet users. It claims it wants to do something about cybersquatting and domain tasting, but has yet to take any real action.

Beckstrom needs to take the initiative and set the facts straight if ICANN is indeed doing the best possible job. Simply telling people, “the Internet is functioning properly” is not sufficient. Unless ICANN can get its act together and provide real answers to its detractors, it will only be a matter of time before its role in Internet governance is changed.

Photo | Flickr

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