Countries adopt global blueprint to tackle fast-evolving crime in digital age

Countries endorsed a new global framework, the Abu Dhabi Declaration, at the opening of the 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi, aiming to address rapidly evolving crimes such as cybercrime, fraud, and digital exploitation. The Declaration acknowledges the growing complexity of criminal activities, including trends like 'crime as a service' and 'violence as a service,' while urging governments to leverage technology in justice systems responsibly.

The Declaration commits nations to digitalizing justice systems and using artificial intelligence in criminal justice responses, but stresses the need for safeguards such as human oversight, transparency, due process, and data protection to prevent misuse. UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed emphasized that justice must be accessible to all, stating that the Congress provides an opportunity to renew commitments to justice and the rule of law.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) highlighted the dual role of technology in both accelerating crime and enabling criminal networks to exploit weaknesses across borders and institutions. Executive Director Monica Juma called for laws and institutions to keep pace with evolving threats, focusing on protecting vulnerable groups such as children, women, and those lacking legal assistance.

The Congress, hosted by the United Arab Emirates, runs through 1 October with over 5,100 participants from 119 countries, including justice ministers and representatives from civil society, academia, and the private sector. The event emphasizes youth inclusion, featuring workshops, a Youth Lab, and art exhibitions, with the Abu Dhabi Declaration serving as a foundation for future action.