The Vietnamese delegation at the session of the United Nations Ad Hoc Committee which approved a draft of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime. (Photo: VNA)

The draft will now be presented to the UN General Assembly for approval. Once approved, the Convention can be signed onto by countries that wish to participate until December 31, 2026. This is the first global legal document aimed at combating crimes in cyberspace.

Dire need for global action against cybercrime

While the growth of information technology has brought substantial benefits, it has also led to a surge in cybercrime. Cyberattacks are rapidly increasing in both scope and sophistication, posing grave threats to economic, political, and social stability. The draft UN Convention against Cybercrime outlines a comprehensive legal framework for international collaboration to prevent, investigate, prosecute, and adjudicate cybercrimes, including computer system attacks, online fraud, illegal distribution of sensitive images, child exploitation, and money laundering.

National law enforcement agencies can collaborate through a 24/7 network to deliver a swift response to cybercrime. The draft includes provisions for technical assistance, capacity building, and technology transfer to address the needs of developing countries. Given the borderless nature of cybercrime, the draft Convention aims to enhance the technological capabilities of developing nations to enable them to effectively address cyber threats and contribute to a safer global network.

A legal foundation for stronger international cooperation in cybercrime prevention

Vietnam is one of the world's leading nations in internet usage, with over 78 million users as of early this year, accounting for nearly 80% of the population. Since the beginning of 2023, more than 13,000 cyberattacks on information systems in Vietnam have resulted in serious incidents.

Vietnam has been closely involved in discussions and negotiations for the draft Convention since its inception in March 2022. The country’s consistent support throughout the eight sessions of the Ad Hoc Committee demonstrates its commitment as an active and responsible member of the international community.

Cooperation with international law enforcement agencies as part of the Convention is crucial for helping Vietnamese authorities promptly investigate and collect evidence related to cybercrimes and prosecute offenders.

The Convention will help developing countries like Vietnam benefit from technical support, capacity building, and technology transfer mechanisms.

In preparation for the approval, signing and ratification of the Convention, Vietnam will continue to review, assess, and update its own legal documents. This includes investing in infrastructure and technological capabilities to meet the Convention's requirements and engaging with the United Nations and international partners to develop appropriate technical assistance programs.