One of CORE's statutory objectives is the launch of new top-level domains (TLDs). An ongoing new TLDs launch process is expected to start in 2009. CORE currently works several new TLD initiatives in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

The ICANN new TLD processes

The central resources of the Internet Domain Name System (DNS) are managed by ICANN which, as a result is also responsible for the introduction of new top-level domains (TLDs).

TLDs are currently divided into two kinds: generic, sponsored and country code TLDs (ccTLDs). In the current definition, aa TLD is considered to be a gTLD if it is not based on an ISO 3166 code for a country or territory. As ccTLDs and gTLDs belong to different legal frameworks, the introduction of new gTLDs and ccTLDs have separate processes.

Introduction of new ccTLDS

The introduction of ccTLDs is always based on an ISO 3166 code element representing a country or territory. If a new code element is assigned because a new country is recognized (a recent example is ME for Montenegro), then IANA can delegate a new ccTLD based on the current principles for ccTLDs.

In addition to this, ICANN's ccNSO is currently working on a process to introduce IDN ccTLDs. The so-called fast-track process for IDN ccTLDs should cover countries where there in urgent need for domains in local scripts. This process is expected to be ready by mid 2009.

Introduction of new gTLDs

By 2007, it issued final report to the ICANN Board and an implementation plan was prepared by ICANN staff. The new gTLD report was approved by the ICANN Board at the Paris ICANN Meeting in June 2008. The currently announced timeline calls for the Draft Request for Proposals (RFP) to be issued by the beginning fourth quarter of 2008. A Final RFP is expected by the first quarter of 2009, leading up to an Application Period for new gTLDs in the middle of 2009.