The European Commission has announced a call for applications to select new members for the .EU Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG). This initiative aims to bring together experts from various sectors to guide the governance of the .eu top-level domain (TLD), which currently boasts around 3 million domain names.

The .eu domain is unique as it operates under a contract with the European Commission, reflecting the broader interests of the European Union. Although this might suggest a complex bureaucratic structure, in practice, the .eu TLD functions similarly to other country code domain names, with a focus on accessibility, security, and stability.

What is the MAG?

The Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) plays a key role in shaping the policies and operations of the .eu TLD. The group is tasked with advising the Commission on several critical areas:

  • Implementing the .eu regulation – ensuring that the rules governing the .eu domain are effectively applied.
  • Strategic oversight – issuing opinions on the management, organization, and administration of the .eu TLD, with a focus on areas like cybersecurity, data protection, and surplus allocation to internet governance initiatives.
  • Registry supervision – monitoring the performance of the .eu registry, including audits and compliance with EU regulations.
  • Preventing abuse – recommending best practices to prevent the misuse of domain registrations, including fraudulent and bad-faith registrations.

Who Can Apply?

The Commission is seeking applicants from civil society, business, academia, and other sectors. The group will consist of up to 22 members representing diverse perspectives. These members will either represent a common interest shared by multiple stakeholders or be nominated by organizations and international bodies.

Applicants must demonstrate:

  • at least three years of experience in internet governance or related areas, particularly within the domain name system (DNS) ecosystem.
  • the ability to represent stakeholder groups in discussions on internet governance.
  • proficiency in English, as meetings and documents will be conducted in English.

Appointment and term

Selected members will be appointed for a two-year term, with the possibility of renewal up to three times. The European Commission’s Directorate General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (DG CONNECT) will handle the selection and strive for geographical and gender balance in appointments.

While participation in the MAG is unpaid, the Commission will reimburse travel and subsistence expenses in line with its policies.

Why join the MAG?

Joining the .EU Multistakeholder Advisory Group provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of one of Europe’s key digital assets. By participating, members will influence how the .eu domain evolves to meet the needs of businesses, civil society, and individual users across the European Union.