ICANN Could Face Controversy Over Approval of a Potentially Offensive gTLD: .retardio
ICANN is on the brink of facing an unprecedented challenge as it considers whether to approve a new generic top-level domain (gTLD) that contains a term widely considered offensive.
Unstoppable Domains has revealed it is collaborating with a client to apply for the domain .retardio, associated with a memecoin cryptocurrency of the same name. While the company claims that the term “symbolizes pride and brilliance blended with eccentricity,” the gTLD could spark a major controversy given its use of a term that has become a derogatory slur in many English-speaking countries.
The term “retard”, originally used as a medical label, has evolved into an insult that is now often referred to as the “R-word.” It is considered offensive to many, especially in the context of disability rights. For instance, the Special Olympics has led efforts to combat the word’s use, hosting an annual awareness day to end its prevalence.
Should this application go forward, it may be subject to significant resistance due to multiple review processes, including the Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC). GAC holds the power to recommend that ICANN reject applications based on public policy concerns. The possibility of a “consensus” objection from one or more governments is high, given the sensitive nature of the term.
Additionally, the Limited Public Interest Objection could be filed against .retardio, citing its potential violation of international norms regarding morality and public order. Disability advocacy groups, including the International Olympic Committee or Special Olympics, could file this objection, leading to the withdrawal of the application.
As the debate continues, the question remains: can a term that’s widely seen as offensive in the modern world be approved as part of a global domain system?
Rewritten Summary:
ICANN might soon have to address the challenging question of whether it should approve the gTLD .retardio. The domain’s controversial name, linked to a cryptocurrency memecoin, features a term widely regarded as offensive and could lead to significant objections from governments and disability rights groups. With multiple avenues for rejection, including government intervention and public interest objections, this decision could set a major precedent for the future of domain name regulations.
News Source:Kevin Murphy，This article does not represent our position.
