The United Nations (UN) General Assembly on Tuesday adopted the UN Convention against Cybercrime, a groundbreaking global treaty that strengthens international cooperation in the fight against these crimes.
This is the first international criminal justice treaty negotiated between UN member states in 20 years.
The legally binding Convention recognises the significant risks posed by the misuse of information and communication technologies, which enable the commission of crime on an unprecedented scale, speed and reach.
It highlights the adverse effects that these crimes can have on states, businesses and the well-being of individuals and society, and focuses on protecting them from crimes such as terrorism, human trafficking, drug smuggling and online financial crime.
The document also recognises the growing impact of cybercrime on victims and prioritises justice, especially for vulnerable groups. It stresses the need for technical assistance, capacity building and cooperation between states and other stakeholders.
According to UN press releases the Convention will be opened for signature at a ceremony to be held next year in Hanoi, Vietnam, and will enter into force 90 days after ratification by the 40th signatory.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres Welcoming the adoption of the historic convention, he expressed confidence that the new treaty will promote a secure cyberspace and called on all states to join it.
"This treaty is an example of multilateralism that has succeeded in difficult times and reflects the common will of member states to promote international cooperation in preventing and combating cybercrime," said his spokesman in a statement.
"The Convention creates an unprecedented platform for cooperation in the exchange of electronic evidence, victim protection and prevention, while ensuring the protection of human rights online," He added.
President of the UN General Assembly Philemon Yang said that by adopting the document, countries have "tools and means in hand to strengthen international cooperation in preventing and combating cybercrime, protecting people and their rights online".
CGTN/ gnews - RoZ
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