The legally binding agreement was passed by the UN General Assembly on Tuesday and is the result of efforts by UN member states over the past five years. In this process, the views of civil society, information security experts, academicians and private sector representatives are also taken.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the deal. This is the first treaty on international criminal justice in 20 years.
He said in his statement that the agreement is a testament to the success of multilateralism in difficult times and reflects the collective spirit of member countries in combating cybercrime and preventing them through international cooperation.
According to the UN chief, this convention will create an unprecedented platform for online cooperation, exchange of evidence, protection of victims and human rights.
“The Secretary-General is confident that this new agreement will promote a safer cyber world, and he calls on all Member States to accede to the Convention and implement it in cooperation with relevant stakeholders.”
Philemon Young, President of the United Nations General Assembly, said that the passage of this agreement will strengthen international cooperation in preventing and combating cybercrime and protecting the rights of ordinary citizens.
The UN General Assembly, which consists of 193 member states, passed a resolution to ratify the agreement without a vote.
Combating cyber crime
The Convention against Cybercrime highlights the dangers posed by the misuse of information and communication technologies, which enable criminal activity of unprecedented speed and scope.
These crimes are having a profound impact on countries, enterprises, ordinary citizens and society. In view of this, the agreement focuses on combating cybercrime, terrorism, human trafficking, drug trafficking and financial fraud through online means.
The Convention addresses the impact of cybercrime on civilians and emphasizes the need to prioritize justice for all victims, especially vulnerable groups.
In addition, it will be important to promote technical assistance, capacity-building and mutual cooperation with Member States and all stakeholders.
The agreement will be presented for signature at a formal ceremony in Hanoi, Vietnam. The agreement will enter into force 90 days after it is ratified by the 40 signatory countries.