UN holds consultation on ratification and implementation of cybercrime convention

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) held an informational consultation at the UN headquarters in Vienna on February 6, to brief member state delegations on the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, its implementation, and the upcoming negotiations for the Convention’s Protocol.
A view of the consultation
A view of the consultation

The event attracted representatives from various member states and international organisations, aiming to clarify the signing and ratification procedures, introduce the upcoming signing ceremony in Hanoi, and foster global cooperation in combating cybercrime.

During the session, UNODC announced that the Convention on Cybercrime is being reviewed and translated into six official UN languages. Once finalised, it will be published on the UNODC website for broader accessibility.

According to regulations, two years after its adoption by the UN General Assembly (December 2024), the UN Special Committee responsible for drafting the Convention will lead discussions on the next steps for the Protocol negotiations, scheduled to begin in early 2026. These discussions aim to develop concrete legal measures and strengthen international cooperation against transnational cybercrime.

At the consultation, Ambassador Vu Le Thai Hoang, Vietnam’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, reaffirmed Vietnam’s strong commitment to the fight against cybercrime. He emphasised that cybercrime prevention is a key priority in Vietnam’s national security policy, and the country has been actively involved in the Convention’s negotiation process.

Ambassador Vu Le Thai Hoang (left) affirms Vietnam's commitment to the fight against cybercrime

Ambassador Vu Le Thai Hoang (left) affirms Vietnam's commitment to the fight against cybercrime

Vietnam will host the signing ceremony of the UN Convention against Cybercrime in 2025, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Vietnam’s National Day, and other significant national celebrations. Ambassador Vu Le Thai Hoang highlighted that this event will not only affirm Vietnam’s role in the international community but also promote global cooperation, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, where cybercrime is on the rise.

Vietnam is closely coordinating with UNODC to prepare the necessary infrastructure and logistics in Hanoi, ensuring a smooth and secure signing ceremony. The Ambassador expressed Vietnam’s hope for support from member states and stakeholders, emphasising the importance of international collaboration in addressing cybersecurity threats. This event is expected to mark a significant milestone in advancing global cooperation on cybersecurity challenges.

NDO