South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko “Nkhensani” Kubayi, speaks at the high-level conference on the UN Convention against Cybercrime, Hanoi, October 26, 2025. (Photo: VNA/Phuong Hoa)

South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko “Nkhensani” Kubayi, emphasized that international cooperation is at the core of the Convention, and that South Africa’s participation will help align its legal system with international standards and strengthen institutional capacity to combat cybercrime. 

“As we signed this Convention yesterday, we reaffirm South Africa’s unwavering commitment to multilateralism, the rule of law and human rights. We view this instrument not only as the end of a process, but as the beginning of a new chapter in global cyber governance, one that must be characterized by ongoing dialogue, transparency, and collaboration,” she said.

“As we commence this new chapter, let us also recalibrate multilateralism and close gaps in governance deficits, against cybercriminals. South Africa stands ready to work with all member states and stakeholders to ensure its effective implementation,” Kubayi added. 

Delegates at the high-level conference on the UN Convention against Cybercrime.

Philippine Secretary of Information and Communications Technology, Henry Rhoel R. Agudatin, voiced confidence in the Convention’s effectiveness once it is put into practice. 

“The UN Convention against Cybercrime will establish a common legal framework, close gaps exploited by criminals, and strengthen cross-border cooperation in investigations and prosecutions. Its provisions on mutual legal assistance and the 24/7 network will accelerate access to information and electronic evidence crucial to modern law enforcement,” he said. 

A representative of China described the Hanoi Convention as “a triumph of multilateralism and the rule of law,” underscoring its significance in upholding international fairness and justice. He urged respect for sovereignty in cyberspace, saying the principle of sovereignty applies equally to the cyber domain, is a common consensus among nation, and is clearly defined in the Convention.

“We must promote shared governance to address emerging global challenges - no country is immune. Third, we need to take action in a phased, pragmatic manner to ensure the Convention’s early and effective implementation,” he said. 

Representatives from 62 countries and international organizations affirmed that cybercrime is evolving rapidly and that no single nation can tackle this challenge alone.