Historical Resolution Tracking Feature » 2011-07-28 - Appointment of a New Ombudsman

Important note: The explanatory text provided through this database (including the summary, implementation actions, identification of related resolutions, and additional information) is an interpretation or an explanation that has no official authority and does not represent the purpose behind the Board actions, nor does any explanations or interpretations modify or override the Resolutions themselves. Resolutions can only be modified through further act of the ICANN Board.

2011-07-28 - Appointment of a New Ombudsman

Resolution of the ICANN Board
Topic: 
Appointment Of New Ombudsman
Summary: 

Board appoints Chris Lahatte as the new ICANN Ombudsman for a two-year term concluding in July 2013.

Category: 
Administration and Budget
Meeting Date: 
Thu, 28 Jul 2011
Resolution Number: 
2011.07.28.07
URL for Resolution: 
http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/resolutions-28jul11-en.htm#3
Status: 
Complete
Implementation Actions: 
  • Execute agreement with Mr. LaHatte.
    • Responsible entity: General Counsel and Secretary
    • Due Date: None provided
    • Completion date: July 2011
Resolution Text: 

Whereas, on 31 January 2011 ICANN's then Ombudsman moved on to other endeavors.

Whereas, since 1 February 2011 an interim Ombudsman has been performing all of the Ombudsman functions and responsibilities.

Whereas, ICANN has conducted a thorough and global search for a new Ombudsman.

Whereas, the Board has identified a new Ombudsman, who has accepted the position.

Resolved (2011.07.28.07), in accordance with Article V, Section 1.2 of the ICANN Bylaws, the Board hereby appoints Chris LaHatte as the ICANN Ombudsman for an initial term of two years, effective 28 July 2011 through 27 July 2013, and authorizes the General Counsel & Secretary to execute an agreement with Mr. LaHatte.

Rationale for Resolution: 

ICANN's Bylaws require ICANN to maintain an Office of the Ombudsman. See Article V of the Bylaws at http://www.icann.org/en/general/bylaws.htm#V. Having an ICANN Ombudsman positively affects the transparency and accountability of ICANN as the Ombudsman is one of the three main accountability mechanisms within ICANN. As there has been a budget for an ICANN Ombudsman since 2004 when the first Ombudsman was appointed, replacing the current interim Ombudsman will have a negligible financial impact on ICANN. Appointing a new Ombudsman will not negatively impact the systemic security, stability and resiliency of the domain name system.

Other Related Resolutions: 
Additional Information: