It is the UN’s first treaty that aims to "prevent and combat cybercrime more efficiently and effectively," notably regarding child sexual abuse imagery and money laundering.
- The treaty would enter into force once 40 member nations will ratify it.
- Presently, the Budapest Convention (2001) serves as the guideline or reference for cybercrime legislation worldwide.
Significance of Treaty
- Establishes for the first time a global-level cybercrime and data access-enabling legal framework.
- Establishes “a global criminal justice policy,” to protect society against cybercrime.
Key Provisions
- Domestic legislation: Calls states to put in place legislation that will make it illegal to breach an information and communications system people don’t have access to.
- Protect children from sexual abuse: call states to make it illegal to produce, offer, sell, distribute, etc. child sexual content online.
- Human Rights: States shall ensure that implementation of their obligations under this treaty is consistent with their obligations under international human rights law.
- Gives states permission to “collect or record” relevant data for a conviction and “compel” service providers to hand over incriminating information or documents.
