Historical Resolution Tracking Feature » Reappointment of 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.

Reappointment of Ombudsman

Resolution of the ICANN Board

Topic:

Summary:

Board reappoints Chris LaHatte as the ICANN Ombudsman for a second two-year term from 28 July 2013 through 27 July 2015.

Category:

Administration and Budget

Meeting Date:

Wed, 17 Jul 2013

Resolution Number:

2013.07.17.11

URL for Resolution:

http://www.icann.org/en/groups/board/documents/resolutions-17jul13-en.htm

Resolution Text:

Whereas, the Ombudsman’s initial term concludes on 27 July 2013. Whereas, the Compensation Committee, which is responsible for overseeing the Ombudsman performance and compensation, has recommended that the Board reappoint Chris LaHatte as the Ombudsman for another two-year term. Whereas, the current Ombudsman has agreed to serve another term if appointed. Resolved (2013.07.17.11), in accordance with Article V, Section 1.2 of the ICANN Bylaws, the Board hereby reappoints Chris LaHatte as the ICANN Ombudsman for a second two-year term from 28 July 2013 through 27 July 2015, and authorizes the General Counsel and 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. ICANN’s current Ombudsman is familiar with and well versed in the complex issues now facing ICANN, including the New gTLD Program and other initiatives currently under way. Mr. LaHatte’s caseload continues to increase over time, as both the nature of ICANN’s activities and the breadth of the ICANN community expand. Maintaining continuity in the Ombudsman’s Office with Mr. LaHatte, who is known and respected by members of the ICANN community, is important to ICANN’s accountability. As there has been a budget for an ICANN Ombudsman since 2004 when the first Ombudsman was appointed this decision does not have any financial impact on ICANN, the community or the public that was not already anticipated or included in the budget. This decision will not have any impact on the security, stability or resiliency of the domain name system. This is an Organizational Administrative Function that does not require public comment.