Commission signed UN Convention to step up the fight against cybercrime

The Commission has signed the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime on behalf of the EU in Hanoi, Viet Nam. The Convention aims to prevent and combat cybercrime and strengthen international cooperation. It ensures that human rights and fundamental freedoms are effectively safeguarded in its application, including the rights to the protection of personal data and privacy.

The Convention includes measures for the extradition of suspects and the exchange of electronic evidence, as well as the criminalisation of cyber-related offences. It supports law enforcement and sets out a framework to provide technical assistance and capacity building across the globe.

This Convention will strengthen the EU's ability to combat cyber-related offences such as child sexual abuse online, online fraud and ransomware attacks, where criminals often target persons and businesses in the EU from non-EU countries.

Background

Between 2019 and 2024, the European Commission negotiated the Convention on behalf of the EU and its Member States. In December 2024, the UN General Assembly adopted the final text of the Treaty. Following a proposal by the Commission, the Council authorised the EU to sign the Convention on 13 October 2025.

Next steps

Following the signature, the Council will discuss and decide on the conclusion of the Convention, which will also require the consent of the European Parliament. Member States will sign and ratify the Convention in accordance with their national procedures. The Convention will enter into force once it is ratified by 40 parties.

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International cooperation against cybercrime