The Internet Commerce Association (ICA), in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), has released the Initial Report of the WIPO-ICA UDRP Review Project Team, marking a significant milestone in assessing and evolving the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) after 25 years.
Co-led by Brian Beckham (WIPO) and Zak Muscovitch (ICA), the report is the product of a nearly year-long effort drawing on the input of dozens of stakeholders — including registrants, brand owners, panelists, counsel, registrars, academics, and dispute resolution providers. A 16-member expert Project Team, supported by 28 subject matter specialists, analyzed key aspects of UDRP operations to identify what’s working, what needs improvement, and which proposals could realistically be implemented.
Notable contributors from the ICA community include Nat Cohen, Jason Schaeffer, Paul Keating, and many others such as Jay Chapman, John Berryhill, and Gerald Levine. Special recognition was given to Steve Levy and Georges Nahitchevansky for their foundational work with the UDRP.group Project.
The report outlines over 26 key topics of interest, ranging from procedural reforms like supplemental filings and withdrawal protocols to potential new features such as mediation, appeals, and expedited dispute resolution. Each issue was categorized into those with “Unanimous Support” and others deemed to have “Consensus Potential” for ICANN’s Phase 2 Review.
The ICA and WIPO believe this effort will help ICANN streamline its Phase 2 Review of Rights Protection Mechanisms, enabling a more focused and effective policy development process.
The Initial Report is now open for public comment until June 27, 2025, and the ICA urges all stakeholders to contribute their feedback to ensure the continued evolution and fairness of the UDRP.
👉 Submit Feedback Before June 27
The UDRP remains a cornerstone of internet governance, and this initiative represents a major opportunity to shape its future for the benefit of the entire domain community.
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