The United Nations General Assembly adopted a new international convention to prevent and combat cybercrime, marking the conclusion of a five-year negotiation process. The UN Convention against Cybercrime aims to strengthen global cooperation, enhance evidence-sharing mechanisms, and provide technical assistance to developing countries to address the growing threat of cybercrime. UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the adoption of the treaty, describing it as the first international criminal justice agreement negotiated in over two decades.
In a statement, Guterres emphasized that the convention represents a successful example of multilateral collaboration during challenging global circumstances, reflecting the collective determination of Member States to confront cyber threats. The new convention establishes a framework for international collaboration in combating cybercrime, focusing on protecting victims, streamlining evidence exchange, and promoting prevention strategies. It also incorporates provisions to safeguard human rights in online environments while ensuring fair enforcement measures.
Guterres called on all nations to adopt and implement the treaty in partnership with stakeholders, emphasizing that it paves the way for a safer and more secure cyberspace. He noted that the convention offers critical tools to address cybercrime and reduce vulnerabilities in the digital world. President of the UN General Assembly Philémon Yang highlighted the dual impact of digital technologies, acknowledging their potential for development alongside the increased risks posed by cyber threats.
Yang praised the adoption of the convention, stating that it equips Member States with mechanisms to bolster international cooperation and protect online rights. The Convention against Cybercrime is set to open for signature at a formal ceremony in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 2025. It will come into effect 90 days after ratification by at least 40 signatory states. This landmark agreement reflects the UN’s commitment to fostering international partnerships to address global challenges in the digital age, ensuring sustainable progress while safeguarding individual freedoms and security. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.