I believe you will find this announcement interesting:
http://www.ntia.doc.gov/press-release/2014/ntia-announces-intent-transition-key-internet-domain-name-functions
As we knew this might be coming, Russ and I (along with IESG/IAB) have worked
with various Internet technical organisations to prepare a statement as well:
http://www.iab.org/documents/correspondence-reports-documents/2014-2/internet-technical-leaders-welcome-iana-globalization-progress/
There will be more to discuss in the coming weeks but I wanted to make sure you
saw these announcements.
Jari Arkko, IETF Chair