[rpd] IPv6 as a criteria in IPv4 Soft Landing AFPUB-2026-v6-001-DRAFT01

[Mxolisi Nomdletshe]

Dear PDWG,

I agree with Alain because the discussion should remain focused on the 
core purpose of the IPv4 Soft Landing policy: Internet number resource 
coordination, not operational decision-making. A registry policy should 
remain a thin coordination layer, ensuring fair and predictable resource 
management, rather than expanding into areas that are better determined 
by network operators.

Of course, it is tempting to transition to IPv6, considering the perks 
it offers. If we are to be rational, everyone would definitely 
appreciate the fact that IPv6 presents them with  streamlined packet 
headers that allow routers to process traffic faster and prioritize 
tasks that are data heavy. Reality however is that businesses find IPv4 
sufficient for their everyday operations. This then means it remains 
unnecessary for them to undergo the expensive transition to IPv6.

We also need to agree to draw distinction between IPv6 deployment and 
IPv6 readiness.
Operators understand the realities of their running networks, including 
infrastructure constraints, customer demand, investment cycles, and 
business priorities. These operational decisions are best driven by 
technical implementation and practical experience, not by policy 
conditions attached to IPv4 eligibility.

IPv6 adoption is undoubtedly important, but lasting progress is more 
likely to come through voluntary adoption, technical collaboration, 
capacity building, and operational knowledge sharing than through 
registry-imposed requirements. Policies should protect operational 
continuity, remain technically neutral, and avoid introducing conditions 
that extend beyond the registry's coordination function.

For these reasons, I support Alain's view that IPv4 Soft Landing should 
remain focused on resource coordination while allowing operators the 
flexibility to determine the most appropriate path for IPv6 deployment 
within their own networks.

Regards

-- 
Mxolisi Nomdletshe
Research Assistant
Institute For Global Dialogue
Cell no: 0684264698
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