The top-level domain (TLD) “.corsica” is a geographical TLD (GeoTLD) that represents the island of Corsica, a region in France. Introduced to the Internet in 2015, it’s part of the larger expansion of TLDs managed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). This domain extension emerges as an effort to boost online identity for the Corsican community, cultural promotion, and business presence on the web. It is an Internet space offering a common identity to companies, institutions or even individuals who want to show a clear geographical or cultural belonging to Corsica.
GeoTLDs, like “.corsica”, are an innovative tool for branding, enabling locations to emphasize their unique identities online. For instance, London has “.london”, New York has “.nyc” and now Corsica has “.corsica”. Their purpose is to foster an online identity of the specific region or city, also contributing to local businesses, tourism and cultural presence.
The applications for “.corsica” are granted by Collectivité Territoriale de Corse (CTC), an institution that represents the Corsican Assembly and Executive Council. The process to get a “.corsica” domain is handled via accredited registrars, like OVH or Gandi. It is open to any individual or organization across the globe; however, those who reside, work, or have direct ties to Corsica are given priority in terms of registration.
The “.corsica” TLD can be used in various ways as seen in practice: local businesses might opt for this domain to emphasize their location and cultural association. A good example is www.gites.corsica, a website that helps users book holiday rentals in Corsica.
As for credible sources, the information on TLDs and specifically “.corsica” can be found in the registry maintained by ICANN, which tracks all active TLDs worldwide. You can also refer to the World Intellectual Property Organization website for details on the selection and management process of TLDs. The local managing authority CTC provides information about specific regulations and guidelines in French regarding this GeoTLD. Websites of accredited registrars, like OVH or Gandi, offer specific guidelines for registration and usage of “.corsica” domain.
In conclusion, the “.corsica” TLD serves as an online extension of Corsican identity, promoting local businesses and culture on a global digital platform. It provides an opportunity for individuals and businesses associated with Corsica to represent their unique cultural and geographical association on the Internet and helps in local economic development by encouraging digital innovation. Even though it is a geography-specific domain, it is a part of the global interconnected network, carving out a distinctive space for Corsica in the digital world.
