How are IDNs related to gTLDs?
ICANN is introducing IDNs at the top level for the first time in Internet history. At present, IDNs are available as second and third-level domains only. The introduction of IDNs at the top-level is being accomplished through two programs: (1) The IDN ccTLD Fast-track – see http://www.icann.org/en/announcements/announcement-2-30sep09-en.htm and (2) The New gTLD Program – http://www.icann.org/en/topics/new-gtld-program.htm. The IDN top-level domain names will offer many new opportunities and benefits for Internet users around the world by allowing them to establish and use top-level domains in their native languages and scripts.
