Security WG Chair Selection Process

Note on Language: Throughout this document the word Chair shall be used for both Chairs and Co-Chairs.

Introduction:

This document outlines procedures dealing with the tenure of RIPE Security Working Group Chairs.

Security WG Chair Term:

The term of the Security WG Chair is three years. A current chair may stand for re-selection at the end of their term. A Security WG Chair may resign voluntarily at any time.

Selection of a Security WG Chair:

Security WG Chair vacancies, along with a call for candidates, must be announced on the Security WG mailing list at least one month in advance of the date upon which the selection will be held. The announcement should set a closing date for candidates. The Security WG may request that a Security WG Chair vacancy be opened so long as the addition of a new Chair would not cause the number of Chairs of the Security WG to exceed three.

Security WG Chairs are elected at Security WG sessions at RIPE meetings. Anyone physically present at the Security WG session is eligible to participate in the selection process. The candidate does not need to be physically present at the Security WG session.

If possible the Chair should be elected by acclamation by the Security WG or by consensus after discussion. If the result is unclear, then a secret ballot should be held. In the case of a ballot, votes will be counted by RIPE NCC Staff and/or Chairs of other RIPE WGs. The result will be determined by simple majority.

Removal of a Security WG Chair:

A Security WG Chair may be unable to fulfil their duties as described in this document or otherwise fail to serve the Security WG and the community. With the endorsement of a significant share of the Security WG, a vote of no confidence may be initiated.

Before a vote of no confidence is taken, due effort should be made to address the issue(s) leading to the vote. The right of reply must be given to all parties involved in the procedure. If this effort fails to resolve the issue, the vote may proceed.

The vote must be requested on the Security WG mailing list at least one week in advance of the Security WG Session at a RIPE meeting and should take place during the Security WG session. Anyone physically present at the Security WG session may take part in the vote. The vote should be conducted by secret ballot and votes counted by RIPE NCC Staff and/or WG Chairs of other RIPE WGs. The result will be determined by simple majority. If the vote of no confidence in a Security WG Chair is passed, the seat is vacated and the Security WG Chair is not eligible for stand for re-selection.

No Chair:

If a working group is left with no Chair, e.g. due to the resignation or removal of the sole Security WG Chair, then the Security WG may elect an interim Security WG Chair according to the selection procedures specified above, but with candidates nominated at the Security WG session. An interim Security WG Chair must resign at the next Security WG session, but may stand for re-selection.