ICP-2 feedback continues: Revisions to RIR governance framework

ICP-2 feedback continues: Revisions to RIR governance framework is profiled by BTW Media because published evidence links it to internet infrastructure, governance, operational dependencies, or market visibility.

• The Number Resource Organization Executive Council (NRO EC) initiated the ICP-2 review in October 2023, tasking the Address Supporting Organization Address Council (ASO AC) with managing the process.
• The proposed updates aim to enhance governance structures, clarify the lifecycle of RIRs, and establish procedures for potential derecognition of non-compliant RIRs.

ICP-2 revision on RIR governance

Originally developed in 2001, ICP-2 outlines the criteria for establishing and recognizing RIRs, ensuring the equitable distribution of internet number resources. Recognizing the need to modernize this framework, the NRO EC commissioned a comprehensive review in late 2023. The ASO AC, also functioning as the NRO Number Council (NRO NC), has since led the revision process.

The updated draft, titled “Governance Document for the Recognition, Maintenance, and Derecognition of Regional Internet Registries,” expands upon the original ICP-2 by:

• Defining governance and operational standards for RIRs throughout their lifecycle.
• Clarifying the process for recognizing new RIRs and the criteria for maintaining their status.
• Establishing principles for the potential derecognition of RIRs failing to meet established obligations.

In February 2025, a summary of responses was published, informing the subsequent drafting of the revised document. The draft was open for public comment from 14 April to 27 May 2025. The impetus for this revision stems from concerns over the operational integrity of certain RIRs, notably AFRINIC, which has faced governance challenges and legal disputes. The absence of clear mechanisms within ICP-2 to address such situations has highlighted the need for updated policies.

A public consultation on the proposed revisions was conducted between October and December 2024, garnering nearly 300 responses. However, the process faced criticism when it was revealed that almost half of the submissions were duplicate comments, possibly generated by AI, leading to questions about the validity of the feedback.

Also read: Worry and concern in ICP-2 discussions at RIPE 90
Also read: AFRINIC elections set, voters urged to ‘Reclaim Your Power’

Why it’s important

While the revision of ICP-2 seeks to strengthen the governance framework of RIRs, some stakeholders express skepticism about the effectiveness of the proposed changes. Concerns include whether the revisions provide sufficient mechanisms to prevent or address misconduct within RIRs and whether the consultation process has been transparent and inclusive enough to capture diverse community perspectives.

As the final version of the revised ICP-2 is anticipated later in 2025, the internet governance community remains watchful, emphasizing the need for robust, transparent, and inclusive processes to ensure that the policy effectively addresses the complexities of RIR operations in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.