[rpd] Gauging Interest in a possible policy change

[Benson Muite]

Andrew Alston <aa at alstonnetworks.net> writes:
Hi,

(Will avoid gendered pronouns in case anyone feels left out)!

> Hi Guys,
>
> I've been giving this a lot of thought and want to gauge interest in adding
> a policy relating to the code of conduct.
>
> Effectively, what I foresee is language added to the policy which acts
> similar to the IETF Notewell, and specifies appropriate/inappropriate
> conduct both on the PDP List and during PDP meetings.

This would probably be helpful.  The IETF has much more transparency
than AFRINIC. It is not structured as a private company so legal
requirements for transparency in decision making, and in use of funds
are stricter.  Every other RIR is structured as an non-profit public
benefit non governmental organization.

Within the IETF, there are structures to get input from outside the IETF
for some decisions, for example from ISOC a broader community of
internet stakeholders.

A code of conduct could help streamline useful input but should not not
prevent dissenting voices from being heard - this can be difficult in
large communities with diverse backgrounds.

When there is disruptive behavior in the IETF, one can ask for further
details and decide on whether a warranted point is being made - some of
the post quantum standards are at least worthy of further individual
investigation.  IETF processes have originated from a specific culture,
they are generally good, but could still be improved in terms of getting
dissenting voices heard.  Not all elements may work well for AFRINIC,
but the experience is something that AFRINIC could learn from and use to
improve.

>
> Ideally speaking this will also include enforcement actions for the code of
> conduct, appeal procedures etc.
>

Codes of conduct are often not drafted by people with any legal
background so are often guidelines for desired behavior and can be
difficult to enforce in some jurisdictions as they maybe in conflict
with local laws.  Codes of conduct are easier to change than by-laws and
as changes would probably be needed, having this would be better than
putting it in the by-laws until they stabilise.

> Within the IETF framework for example, disruptive behavior can result in
> the temporary or permanent loss of posting rights to the list, and such
> enforcement actions are subject to a robust appeal mechanism.
>
> Before I start drafting however, I'd like to hear the PDP's thoughts on
> whether this is worth doing.
>

In my personal opinion this would be helpful, though my opinion is that
AFRINIC also needs broader restructuring and if such a restructuring
were to occur, how much would be carried over?

Benson

> Thanks
>
> Andrew