The global organization reaffirms its commitment to a multilateral model of governance, cybersecurity, and sustainable technological transformation.
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has officially launched its Strategic Plan for the fiscal years 2026–2030. Effective from July 1, 2025, this new plan lays the foundation for the evolution of global Internet governance and reinforces ICANN’s commitment to a robust, interoperable, and secure system of unique identifiers.
The roadmap was developed through a participatory and inclusive process involving the entire ICANN multilateral community, including governments, civil society, the private sector, academia, and technical organizations. Under the motto “One World, One Internet,” the plan sets a clear vision for 2030: to strengthen the Internet as a single, interoperable, and accessible network for everyone.
Four Key Strategic Objectives
The 2026–2030 Strategic Plan is structured around four main objectives that will guide ICANN’s activities over the next five years:
Evolve and Promote the Multistakeholder Model
ICANN champions an inclusive approach that encourages equitable participation from all global stakeholders. This includes bringing in new voices, strengthening collaboration among community groups, developing new leaders, and streamlining policy development processes.Drive Organizational Excellence
In a constantly changing digital environment, ICANN aims to reinforce its financial sustainability, institutional agility, and environmental responsibility. Priorities include adopting a hybrid work model, regional decentralization, and implementing sustainable practices to reduce its carbon footprint.Collaborate with Stakeholders to Evolve Internet Identifier Systems
ICANN will intensify technical cooperation with entities like IETF, RIRs, and root server operators to adapt to new technological developments. Emphasis is placed on advancing Universal Acceptance, promoting internationalized domain names (IDN), and expanding digital inclusion.Strengthen the Security and Stability of Internet Unique Identifier Systems
The security of the Domain Name System (DNS) and root system is a central focus. Measures will be implemented to mitigate emerging threats, enhance root server governance, and coordinate responses to cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.
Adapting to a Complex Geopolitical Environment
The new plan explicitly recognizes emerging geopolitical challenges that could impact the technical governance of the Internet. Confronting the risk of network fragmentation, ICANN reaffirms its role as guardians of a unified and cooperative Internet.
The organization also anticipates new regulatory tensions, particularly around cybersecurity, data protection, and technical interoperability. Consequently, the plan calls for increased coordination with governments, international bodies, and policymakers.
Ongoing Oversight and Results-Based Approach
The Strategic Plan 2026–2030 is accompanied by a five-year operational plan that translates strategic objectives into concrete actions, progress indicators, and risk assessments. This document will be reviewed annually to adapt to new circumstances.
“As a firm commitment to the future of the Internet, the Strategic Plan is not just a statement of intent but a responsibility for the entire ICANN community to implement,” said Tripti Sinha, Chair of ICANN’s Board.
A Global Model Under Pressure
At a time when some governments promote centralized digital control approaches, ICANN’s multistakeholder model becomes a cornerstone for maintaining an open and decentralized Internet. ICANN intensifies its defense of this model, not only within its governance framework but as a reference for decision-making spaces in the digital realm.
The new strategic plan reinforces this vision through the creation of new strategic alliances, global promotion projects for the participatory model, and the development of technologies that bolster the resilience of the digital ecosystem.