What framework does the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime provide for countries?

The United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2024, serves as the first global treaty specifically addressing cybercrime.12

This convention establishes a comprehensive framework designed to facilitate international cooperation and harmonize legal responses to digital threats. Specifically, the framework provides for the following:

• Prevention and Prosecution: It outlines measures for preventing and prosecuting cyber-related offenses.1
• Evidence Sharing: It creates mechanisms for the sharing of electronic evidence across national borders.1
• International Cooperation: It strengthens the ability of countries to coordinate their efforts in investigating and responding to cyber incidents.1
• Technical Assistance: It includes provisions for providing technical assistance to member states to bolster their capabilities.1

The treaty was opened for signature in October 2025 and is set to enter into force once it has been ratified by 40 member states.1