Kenya, Malawi, and Papua New Guinea have been invited to join the Convention on Cybercrime as of October 9, 2024. This invitation lasts for five years and follows capacity-building projects by the Council of Europe. Consequently, 76 States are now Parties to the Convention, enhancing international collaboration in combatting cybercrime.
On October 9, 2024, during the 1509th Meeting of the Ministers’ Deputies, Kenya, Malawi, and Papua New Guinea were formally invited to accede to the Convention on Cybercrime, commonly referred to as the Budapest Convention. This invitation is applicable for a duration of five years from its issuance. Such developments are a result of significant capacity-building efforts facilitated through various initiatives of the Cybercrime Programme Office of the Council of Europe (C-PROC). By accepting this invitation, these nations will also benefit from enhanced assistance under the GLACY-e and Octopus Project initiatives. Following this announcement, the total number of States participating in the Convention has risen to 76, with an additional two States having signed it, and 18 others invited to join, bringing the aggregate participation to 96 States who are either participants or observers within the Cybercrime Convention Committee (T-CY).
The Convention on Cybercrime, established in Budapest, is an international treaty aimed at addressing crimes committed via the internet and other computer networks. It facilitates international cooperation in combating cybercrime, including issues of jurisdiction, law enforcement, and cooperation among member states. The Council of Europe supports this initiative through various programs designed to build capacity within states, fostering an environment conducive to international collaboration against cyber threats. The inclusion of countries such as Kenya, Malawi, and Papua New Guinea marks a significant step towards comprehensive global efforts in tackling cybercrime.
In conclusion, the recent invitation extended to Kenya, Malawi, and Papua New Guinea to accede to the Budapest Convention highlights a growing international commitment to combat cybercrime. Supported by the Council of Europe’s dedicated initiatives, this effort will facilitate stronger collaboration and resource sharing among nations. With an increasing number of parties involved in this convention, the global response to cybercrime is evidently becoming more robust and coordinated.
Original Source: www.coe.int
