Organizational Reviews

Organizational Reviews are anchored in Article 4.4. of the ICANN Bylaws to assess the effectiveness of ICANN’s supporting organizations, advisory committees (with exception of the Governmental Advisory Committee) and Nominating Committee. Organizational Reviews are conducted by independent examiners to assess:

(i) whether that organization, council or committee has a continuing purpose in the ICANN structure. 

(ii) if so, whether any change in structure or operations is desirable to improve its effectiveness.

(iii) whether that organization, council or committee is accountable to its constituencies, stakeholder groups, organizations and other stakeholders.

Refer to the Organizational Review Process Flow Chart for more information. 

Organizational Reviews are conducted no less frequently than every five years, based on feasibility as determined by the Board. 

The Third Accountability and Transparency Review Team (ATRT3) made a recommendation to evolve organizational reviews into continuous improvement programs (CIP). In November 2020, the Board directed that a pilot continuous improvement program be conducted. 

Recognizing the impact of the ATRT3 recommendation, the Board deferred organizational reviews in June 2021 and June 2022, and directed ICANN org to report on the status of the deferral and continued need within three years of the June 2022 resolution. 

On 19 May 2025, the Board confirmed that the Continuous Improvement Program (CIP) should progress as planned, and that Organizational Reviews are deferred until the first CIP cycle is complete. 

Here is a listing of the Organizational Reviews and key resources for each:

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*Following ICANN Bylaws, Section 4.4(b), and ASO Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ICANN, ASO and the Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC) shall provide their own review mechanisms.