Hanoi: The European Commission has signed the United Nations Convention against cybercrime on behalf of the EU in Hanoi, Vietnam. The move is seen as a strategic step in the EU’s efforts to address the growing threat of cybercrime.
According to Emirates News Agency, the fight against cybercrime is a priority for the EU, with the Commission emphasizing that cybercrime transcends borders and poses significant risks, including disruption of essential services, financial losses, and compromises to personal and sensitive information.
The newly signed convention aims to strengthen the EU’s ability to combat cybercrime through enhanced international collaboration. It facilitates cooperation with 115 UN Member States that are not parties to the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, thereby addressing a critical gap in the global fight against cybercrime.
The convention establishes global standards to prevent and combat cybercrime while ensuring the protection of fundamental rights. It criminalizes various harmful activities, such as child sexual abuse, online fraud, and ransomware attacks, and includes provisions for the extradition of suspects and the exchange of electronic evidence. The convention also seeks to bolster law enforcement cooperation and enhance capacity building worldwide.
Between 2019 and 2024, the European Commission represented the EU and its Member States in negotiating the convention. The UN General Assembly adopted the final text on 24th December 2024. Subsequently, on 13th October 2025, the Council authorized the EU to sign the convention following a proposal by the Commission.
Following this signing, the Council of the European Union will deliberate on the conclusion of the convention, which requires the consent of the European Parliament. EU Member States will proceed to sign and ratify the convention according to their national procedures. The convention will come into effect once ratified by 40 countries.