ICANN's accountability model
According to its bylaws, ICANN periodically reviews how well it uses mechanisms for public input, accountability and transparency. It must ensure its actions reflect the concerns of the internet community and are accountable to it.
The ICANN Accountability and Transparency Review is the means by which this accountability model is enforced through ongoing assessments, reporting and process improvements.
ICANN recognizes the following three types of accountability:
- Public sphere accountability: ICANN uses various mechanisms that demonstrate it is behaving responsibly.
- Corporate and legal accountability: ICANN must fulfill its contractual and legal obligations.
- Community accountability: ICANN is expected to act in accordance with the expectations of its community.
ICANN meets its transparency commitments by openly and routinely publishing all documents relating to its operations and activities. Information may be withheld from the public only when there is a clear reason for confidentiality. For example, ICANN does not publish personal information about employees or information related to confidential discussions with governments.