Brussels: The European Council has officially adopted a decision that authorises the European Commission and its member states to sign a United Nations Convention aimed at combating cybercrime. This pivotal decision marks a significant step towards establishing a unified international framework to enhance cooperation on cybercrime and the exchange of electronic evidence for criminal investigations or proceedings.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Convention is set to harmonise the criminalisation of certain cyber-related offences among participating countries. The treaty requires all signatories to criminalise specific cyber-conducts, such as IT fraud and illegal interception, within their national legislation. This harmonisation aims to streamline international efforts in combating cybercrime by ensuring that similar acts are treated as criminal offences across all participating nations.
The Convention also mandates that signatories cooperate in the investigation and prosecution of criminal offences outlined in the treaty. This includes the collection and sharing of electronic evidence, not only for cybercrimes but also for serious crimes like international organised crime, provided these crimes carry a minimum prison sentence of four years.
The timeline for signing the Convention opens on 25th October 2025 and closes on 31st December 2026, with the treaty coming into force ninety days after the fortieth instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval, or accession is deposited. The European Council presidency is set to prioritise the completion of the corresponding Council decision for the EU and its member states, with the goal of securing the European Parliament’s consent.
Cybercrime poses an increasing threat to the security of citizens and businesses within the EU. As noted in a 2024 threat assessment by Europol, the incidence, intensity, and potential harm of cybercrime have risen dramatically. Concurrently, electronic evidence has become increasingly crucial in criminal investigations.
The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention in December 2024. It stipulates that the EU, along with other regional economic integration organisations, may sign and ratify the Convention if at least one of its member states does so.