“The United Nations Convention against Cybercrime is a powerful and legally binding instrument to strengthen our collective defenses against cybercrime”Guterres said at the signing ceremony on Saturday.
“It is a testament to the continued power of multilateralism to offer solutions. And it is a promise that no country, regardless of its level of development, will be defenseless against cybercrime.”
The signing ceremony was organized by Vietnam in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and was attended by senior officials, diplomats and experts from all regions.
A global framework for cooperation
The new treaty criminalizes a variety of cyber and cybercrimes, facilitates the exchange of electronic evidence across borders, and establishes a 24/7 network of cooperation between States.
It also makes history as the first international treaty to recognize the non-consensual dissemination of intimate images as a crime, a significant victory for victims of online abuse.
It will enter into force 90 days after the 40th State deposits its ratification.
Read more about the Convention here.
Secretary-General António Guterres addresses delegates at the signing ceremony.
A collective defense for the digital age
In his remarks, Guterres warned that while technology has generated “extraordinary progress,” it has also created new vulnerabilities.
“Every day, sophisticated scams defraud families, steal livelihoods, and drain billions of dollars from our economies,” he said. “In cyberspace, no one is safe until everyone is safe. A vulnerability anywhere can expose people and institutions everywhere.”
The Secretary General highlighted that the Convention represents “a victory for victims of online abuse” and “a clear path for investigators and prosecutors” to overcome barriers to justice when crimes and evidence cross multiple borders.
By providing a global standard for electronic evidence, the treaty aims to improve cooperation between law enforcement agencies while safeguarding privacy, dignity and fundamental human rights.
Secretary-General António Guterres (left) and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam at the joint press conference.
Visit of the UN chief to Vietnam
The signing ceremony was part of Mr. Guterres’ official visit to Vietnam, where he also met with President Lương Cường, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and other senior officials.
In a joint press conference with the Prime Minister, Guterres highlighted Vietnam’s vital role in the global digital supply chain.
“It is fitting that (the signing ceremony) takes place here, in a nation that has embraced technology, driven innovation and become an essential part of the world’s digital supply chains,” he said, urging states to quickly ratify and implement the treaty.
“Now we must convert the signatures into actions,” he said. “The Convention must be rapidly ratified, fully implemented and supported with funding, training and technology, especially for developing countries.”
A safer cyberspace for everyone
The new convention is expected to reshape how countries address cybercrime at a time when digital threats are increasing sharply. According to industry experts, global cybercrime costs are projected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025.
For many governments, particularly in the Global South, the treaty represents an opportunity to access training, technical assistance and cooperation channels in real time.
“Let us seize this moment,” Guterres said. “Let us build a cyberspace that respects the dignity and human rights of all and ensure that the digital age brings peace, security and prosperity for all.“