The United Nations General Assembly, on Tuesday adopted the Convention Against Cybercrime. This groundbreaking treaty aims to enhance international cooperation in combating cybercriminal activity while protecting societies from digital threats.
The Convention, the first legally binding international criminal justice treaty in over 20 years, represents the culmination of a five-year effort. Its development included contributions from UN Member States, civil society, cybersecurity experts, academia, and the private sector, reflecting a truly collaborative approach.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres celebrated the adoption as a significant achievement for global multilateralism.
“This treaty is a demonstration of multilateralism succeeding during difficult times and reflects the collective will of Member States to promote international cooperation to prevent and combat cybercrime,” said a statement from his office.
The Convention provides an unprecedented platform for global collaboration, offering mechanisms for the exchange of evidence, protection for victims, and enhanced preventative measures—all while safeguarding human rights in the digital realm.
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“The Secretary-General trusts that the new treaty will promote a safe cyberspace and calls on all States to join the Convention and implement it in cooperation with relevant stakeholders,” the statement added.
Philémon Yang, President of the General Assembly, underscored the importance of the treaty in today’s interconnected world. “We live in a digital world, one where information and communications technologies have enormous potential for societal development but also bring increased risks of cybercrime,” Yang remarked.
He emphasized that the Convention equips Member States with essential tools to strengthen international efforts in preventing and combating cybercrime while safeguarding individuals and their online rights.
The adoption of the Convention Against Cybercrime marks a significant step forward in the global fight against digital threats. It reflects the collective determination of nations to tackle the challenges of cybercrime while fostering safer, more secure cyberspaces for all.