Seventy-two nations sign first UN treaty to fight cybercrime, in milestone for digital cooperation | #cybercrime | #infosec

A collective defence for the digital age 

In his remarks, Mr. Guterres warned that while technology has brought “extraordinary progress,” it has also created new vulnerabilities. 

“Every day, sophisticated scams defraud families, steal livelihoods and drain billions of dollars from our economies,” he said. “In cyberspace, nobody is safe until everybody is safe. One vulnerability anywhere can expose people and institutions everywhere.” 

Ms. Waly agreed, noting that we are “seeing cybercriminals bring multinationals to their knees, decimate smaller organizations and use developing countries as testing grounds for their techniques.” 

The Secretary-General emphasized the Convention represents “a victory for victims of online abuse” and “a clear pathway for investigators and prosecutors” to overcome barriers to justice when crimes and evidence cross multiple borders. 

By providing a global standard for electronic evidence, the treaty aims to improve cooperation between law enforcement agencies while safeguarding privacy, dignity and fundamental human rights. 

Next steps 

At a joint press conference with the Prime Minister, Mr. Guterres highlighted that “now, we must turn signatures into action. The Convention must be ratified quickly, implemented fully, and supported with funding, training and technology – especially for developing countries.” 

Ms. Waly underscored that UNODC is already working to help achieve these goals. “We have developed a ratification methodology that accounts for different legal systems and capabilities,” she said. “And beyond ratification, our Office will provide tailored technical assistance on implementation.” 

UNODC’s years of experience supporting over 60 countries to respond to cybercrime – together with its mandates, expertise and relationships – gives the Office a strong head-start on working together with Member States to implement the new Convention, she added. 

A safer cyberspace for all 

The new convention is expected to reshape how countries tackle cybercrime at a time when digital threats are rising sharply. 

For many governments, particularly in the Global South, the treaty represents an opportunity to access training, technical assistance and real-time cooperation channels. 

“Let us seize this moment,” Mr. Guterres said. “Let us build a cyberspace that respects everyone’s dignity and human rights – and ensure that the digital age delivers peace, security and prosperity for all.”