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Introduction
Participating in an ICANN international program is not just an opportunity: it is a true immersion in the global Internet governance. Global governance is based on a multi-stakeholder model involving governments, businesses, technical organizations, civil society, and academia. To ensure balanced and inclusive representation, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) created the ICANN Fellowship Program in 2007.
This flagship program enables professionals, particularly those from underrepresented regions or communities, to actively participate in Internet governance and gain unique experience on the global stage.
A program promoting diversity and global participation
Since its creation, the ICANN Fellowship program has enabled hundreds of participants from more than 30 countries to attend ICANN public meetings. By covering travel, accommodation, and living expenses, the program makes it possible for candidates who are far from major digital decision-making centers to participate.
The goal is clear : to increase diversity, inclusion, and active participation so that Internet governance reflects the plurality of its users.
Each edition brings together approximately 45 fellows from technical, legal, academic, or non-profit backgrounds, accompanied by experienced mentors from the ICANN community, who guide them through decision-making processes and working sessions of the ICANN.
Operation and support for scholarship recipients
The ICANN Fellowship Program consists of three main phases :
Before the meeting
- Training via ICANN Learn, presenting the ICANN’s structure, governance, DNS, and related policies.
- Mentoring to prepare participants to become actively involved and develop their network
During the meeting
- Participation in sessions, workshops, and group discussions.
- Interaction with members of the ICANN community and ongoing support from the mentor.
After the meeting
- Post-meeting follow-up, maintaining links with mentors, and involvement in ICANN working groups or support organizations.
Eligibility criteria and selection process
The program is open to candidates aged 21 or older who can demonstrate a genuine interest in Internet governance and ICANN policies (DNS, security, stability, TLDs).
Applicants must :
- Complete the required courses on ICANN Learn prior to evaluation.
- Not be receiving other ICANN funding at the time of selection.
- Not have received more than two scholarships previously (past scholarship recipients must demonstrate continued involvement).
- Present a clear motivation and concrete long-term engagement plan.
Evaluation: Selection is based on a standardized grid that takes into account diversity, professional experience, and potential for future engagement. The selection committee, composed of representatives from various ICANN organizations, spends 30 to 40 hours reviewing applications.
Why this program should be of interest to legal and intellectual property professionals
While the ICANN’s program aims to strengthen global participation, it is of particular interest to legal, intellectual property, and digital technology professionals.
Participating in an ICANN meeting allows you to :
- Gain direct insight into the technical and political governance of the Internet, including domain names, DNS security, and new TLDs.
- Develop an international network of experts, lawyers, engineers, decision-makers, and academics.
- Enhance your professional credibility: being a former ICANN fellow is a mark of recognized expertise in digital governance, cybersecurity, and ICT law.
- Contribute to national or regional digital transformation initiatives.
For lawyers, corporate legal professionals, and intellectual property experts, this program represents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of law and technology in a global and interconnected context.
Conclusion
The ICANN Fellowship Program is far more than financial support : it serves as a gateway into the global Internet governance community.Training, mentoring, and personalized support enable each participant to become an active contributor to an open, secure, and inclusive Internet.
Legal, intellectual property, and technology professionals would be well advised to follow the upcoming application cycles (ICANN85 and ICANN86) and start preparing their applications now.
Dreyfus & Associés assists its clients in managing complex intellectual property cases, offering personalized advice and comprehensive operational support for the complete protection of intellectual property.
Nathalie Dreyfus with the support of the entire Dreyfus team
FAQ
1. What is the ICANN Fellowship Program?
The ICANN Fellowship Program enables professionals, particularly those from underrepresented regions or communities, to participate in ICANN public meetings, with comprehensive support through mentoring, training, and post-meeting follow-up.
2. Who can apply for the ICANN Fellowship Program?
Applicants must be at least 21 years old, demonstrate an interest in Internet governance, and complete the required modules on ICANN Learn. They must not receive any other ICANN funding and must not have received more than two fellowships in the past.
3. What are the benefits for legal and intellectual property professionals?
Scholars gain firsthand understanding of Internet governance, enhance their professional credibility, develop an international network, and can apply this knowledge to local or regional initiatives related to digital law, cybersecurity, or domain name management.
4. What does the ICANN Fellowship Program cover?
The program funds travel, accommodation, and living expenses, and offers structured support : mentoring before and during the meeting, training via ICANN Learn, and post-meeting follow-up to encourage ongoing engagement with the ICANN community.
5. How can I best prepare to maximize my chances of being selected?
It is recommended to complete the ICANN Learn modules, to prepare a clear and well-structured motivation letter, and to set out a concrete plan for future contributions.