With Criminal Groups Using Sophisticated Technologies to Ply Their Wares, Third Committee Stresses Urgent Need to Collectively Combat Transnational Crime
Child Sexual Abuse, Trafficking of Drugs, Firearms, Ammunition on Dark Web Skyrocketing Globally, UN Official States
Organized criminal groups use technology in every step of their process, the Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) heard today, as delegates highlighted the many scourges stemming from human trafficking and outlined ways to prevent crime and combat the illicit trafficking of drugs, corruption, terrorism and organized crime.
Delphine Schantz, representative of the New York Liaison Office, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), said the rapid expansion of online connectivity without a parallel development of risk management measures at legal and policy levels has increased the risk of cyberdependent and cyberenabled criminal activities. In this context, she reported that online child sexual abuse and exploitation has increased 35 per cent within the last year. Further, cyberenabled trafficking of controlled drugs, as well as firearms, parts and components and ammunition, available on the dark web has grown globally. Trafficking in persons for forced criminality connected to casinos and scam operations run by organized criminal groups has also enormously increased in some regions of the world.
In response to these threats, UNODC provides capacity-building on cybercrime to Member States across all regions, using the model of regional hubs, she said. To counter current terrorism threats, the Office has launched a new global programme on preventing terrorism, reinforcing the legal and criminal justice support to Member States. In this regard, she spotlighted UNODC’s support provided to Mexico, where the use of artificial intelligence has helped law enforcement analyse cases of violence against women. Also, the UNODC Global Maritime Crime Programme has used artificial intelligence to support maritime analysts in processing information to determine threats.
During the ensuing debate, delegates emphasized that combating transnational organized crime requires collective efforts, highlighting the need to target corruption, as it threatens the rule of law and undermines public trust in democratic institutions.
On that note, Singapore’s delegate, speaking on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), cited transnational crime as “a particularly acute challenge in South-East Asia”, which is densely interconnected. As UNODC found earlier this year, methamphetamine seizures in South-East Asia — the world’s largest producing region for the drug — returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2022, while ketamine seizures also reached an all-time high in 2022. This reflects the severity of the problem in the region, he said, advocating for a zero-tolerance approach towards illicit drugs.
Echoing his concerns, Jamaica’s delegate, who spoke on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), said that, due to its porous borders, the bloc continues to grapple with concerning levels of criminal activity, including the smuggling of drugs and firearms, money laundering, human trafficking, irregular migration and emerging threats in the domain of cyberspace. Most serious crimes have been committed with the use of illegal firearms purchased outside the region, he said, also detailing initiatives to tackle human trafficking — one of the issues that plague CARICOM.
Colombia’s delegate, meanwhile, said her country is committed to resolving the root causes of violence and crime by addressing the lack of economic employment and educational opportunities. Given the transnational nature of organized crime, international cooperation is essential, she underscored, adding that her Government prioritizes prosecution for crimes such as money laundering, extortion and smuggling.
The representative of the United States voiced concern over the growing list of technological misuses for censorship, transnational repression, and arbitrary and unlawful surveillance. These abuses disproportionately affect women and girls and LGBTQI persons as well as members of other marginalized communities, with activists lobbying for women’s rights being harassed and intimidated and journalists being targeted for factually reporting corrupt and authoritarian practices. Accordingly, “we must work to ensure that technologies are designed, developed, deployed and used in a responsible way,” he asserted.
Adding to that, the representative of Cameroon spotlighted a law recently adopted by her Government on the protection of children online, which clearly identifies the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in cyberspace. The law places a general obligation on stakeholders to ensure the safety of children in cyberspace through respect for their rights, awareness-raising and training. These obligations consist of suspending access to the Internet, digital content or social networks for a consumer author of content harmful to children.
Also speaking today, the youth delegate of Poland stressed that unequal access to the Internet poses a serious threat: While new digital technologies help in increasing transparency and ensuring accountability, it is still common enough for Governments to use Internet control as a tool in suppressing opposing movements and surveillance. Nevertheless, shutting down access to the Internet during protests is an unacceptable example of a violation of the human right to freedom of expression, she asserted, also noting that cyberattacks need to be addressed as an emerging weapon of manipulation and warfare.
Interactive Dialogue — Drugs and Crime
DELPHINE SCHANTZ, representative of the New York Liaison Office, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), said her Office has been actively working towards the delivery of services for Member States, including through the meaningful engagement of youth and mainstreaming of gender and human rights. It has also invested in innovative approaches in the delivery of its mandates, she said, pointing to support provided to Mexico, where the use of artificial intelligence has helped law enforcement analyse cases of violence against women. In addition, the UNODC Global Maritime Crime Programme has used artificial intelligence to support maritime analysts in processing information to determine threats. UNODC has further supported Member States in addressing crimes that affect the environment, ranging from fisheries crime to illegal mining.
Detailing UNODC work under specific mandate areas, she said it has launched a revamped global programme on people-centred crime prevention and criminal justice, covering issues such as access to justice, crime prevention, violence against women and children, as well as prison reform. It has developed new initiatives aimed at strengthening youth resilience to crime and violence, including youth in marginalized communities. In the area of anti-corruption, UNODC has enhanced its delivery model to provide context-specific support through the establishment of regional anti-corruption hubs. There are currently three regional anti-corruption hubs in operation — Nairobi, Kenya, covering Africa; Mexico City, Mexico, covering Latin America and the Caribbean; and Bogota, Colombia, covering South America. A fourth hub is being established in Bangkok, Thailand, which will cover South-East Asia.
She went on to underscore that the rapid expansion of online connectivity without a parallel development of risk management measures at legal and policy levels has increased the risk of cyberdependent and cyberenabled criminal activities. In this context, she reported that online child sexual abuse and exploitation has increased 35 per cent within the last year. It is crucial to actively collaborate with actors from different sectors at global and local levels to prevent and remove child sexual abuse material from the Internet, as well as investigate and prosecute offenders, while protecting victims, she emphasized. She further highlighted that cyberenabled trafficking of controlled drugs, including synthetic drugs, and of firearms, parts and components and ammunition available on the dark web has grown globally.
Turning to human trafficking, she said organized criminal groups use technology in every step of their process. Trafficking in persons for forced criminality connected to casinos and scam operations run by organized criminal groups has enormously increased in some regions of the world. Technological developments have also massively transformed the illicit manufacturing of firearms, their parts and ammunition. In some regions, most firearms seized at crime scenes are now homemade “ghost guns” produced with online-purchased and parcel-shipped kits. Similarly, new generation 3D printers permit the manufacture of firearm parts at home based on online blueprints.
In response, UNODC provides capacity building on cybercrime to Member States across all regions, using the model of regional hubs. To counter current terrorism threats, it has launched a new global programme on preventing terrorism, reinforcing the legal and criminal justice support to Member States while respecting human rights and adherence to counter-terrorism universal instruments. UNODC continues to assist States in screening, prosecutions, rehabilitation and reintegration of foreign terrorist fighters and support regional mechanisms, she added.
In the ensuing interactive dialogue, delegates highlighted the many scourges stemming from human trafficking and outlined ways Governments are working to prevent crime and combat the illicit trafficking of drugs, corruption, terrorism and organized crime. Speakers shared challenges and asked about actions UNODC is taking to boost cooperation among Member States, UN agencies and the wider UN system to fight the abovementioned challenges.
The representative of Iran said that conducting joint investigations between countries of destination, transit and origin for trafficking of persons is crucial. She added that one of the significant challenges hindering international cooperation is unilateral coercive measures. She asked for Ms. Schantz to elaborate on activities UNODC is taking to address the negative impacts of unilateral coercive measures on investigations.
The representative of the European Union delegation, in its capacity as observer, said that the ongoing Russian Federation war of aggression against Ukraine has severely hampered international cooperation. The contributions of civil society and non-governmental organizations are indispensable for the work of UNODC. Against the backdrop of the Russian Federation’s war of aggression against Ukraine, what impact does UNODC see on organized crime in the concerned region and beyond and which actions could be taken, she asked.
The representative of the United States said that illegally manufactured synthetic drugs are critical threats to global health. Preventing and combating transnational organized crime, corruption and drug threats or efforts require global action. He asked Ms. Schantz about best practices for engaging non-governmental stakeholders, in particular social media and technology companies, to combat illicit synthetic drugs.
The representative of Cyprus, associating herself with the statement made by the European Union delegation, said that the sole purpose of trafficking in persons is economic gains, since it is a crime that generates high profits for perpetrators. What can be done by governments, the UN system, civil society and the private sector to improve coordination against trafficking in persons, she asked.
The representative of Mexico asked Ms. Schantz to provide additional information on how cooperation between UNODC and other system agencies as well as the private sector and civil society is indeed contributing to tackling the threat of the use of information and communication technologies for criminal purposes.
Responding to delegates, Ms. Schantz said the Agency is providing support to States based on individual problems and context in terms of technical assistance. The Office in Ukraine was recently revamped, she added, and is conducting research regarding trafficking of arms and drugs. Monitoring is taking place at the intersection of corruption and trafficking to determine how these phenomena affect neighbouring countries. Non-governmental organizations have a large part to play, especially in the Organization’s research on synthetic drugs. Further cooperation between the private and public sectors is important going forward in the prevention of cybercrimes, she stressed.
General Debate
SIMONE SCHULLER, European Union, in its capacity as observer, said that organized crime poses a significant threat to citizens, businesses and State institutions, as well as to the economy as a whole, and must be addressed by responding to the specificities of the crime. She reaffirmed the importance of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocols in preventing and combating existing and emerging forms of crime.
Combating transnational organized crime requires collective efforts, she said, highlighting the need to target corruption, which threatens the rule of law, undermines human rights and undermines public trust in democratic institutions. The European Union sees this fight as an absolute necessity at the global, regional and national levels, she said.
BURHAN GAFOOR (Singapore), speaking on behalf of the 10 Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), said transnational crime continues to be an international scourge, with the post-pandemic resumption of travel, reopening of borders and realignment of supply chains allowing criminals to travel across borders. The transnational flow of criminal proceeds and illicit items also adversely affects populations, regardless of jurisdiction. This poses a particularly acute challenge in South-East Asia, which is densely interconnected. Highlighting ASEAN commitment to working with the international community to combat transnational crime, he said that, to address these challenges, it convened the Seventeenth ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime in Indonesia. During the meeting, the Labuan Bajo Declaration on Advancing Law Enforcement Cooperation in Combating Transnational Crime and ASEAN Declaration on Strengthening Cooperation in Protecting and Assisting Witnesses and Victims of Transnational Crime were adopted, while the ASEAN Plan of Action in Combating Transnational Crime (2016–2025) was reaffirmed.
These ongoing efforts reaffirm ASEAN shared commitment and collective responsibility in combating transnational crime in the region, he emphasized. UNODC also found earlier this year that methamphetamine seizures in South-East Asia, the world’s largest producing region for the drug, returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2022. Ketamine seizures also reached an all-time high in 2022. This reflects the severity of the drug problem in the region, he said, noting that ASEAN aims to eliminate illicit drugs and their abuse by adopting a zero-tolerance approach towards illicit drugs. ASEAN will continue to work together to combat the organized crime groups that peddle illicit drugs and continue working with UNODC to eradicate illicit drugs and combat transnational crime, he said, also spotlighting ASEAN initiatives to combat online radicalization and trafficking in persons.
SERGEI A. LEONIDCHENKO (Russian Federation), speaking on behalf of a group of 32 countries, called for a depoliticized and collective effort to combat the complex drug problem on an international scale. He expressed concern about the legalization of cannabis for non-medical purposes. This trend is a major challenge for the international community and for implementation of the three drug conventions. Further, he encouraged Member States to raise awareness about the harmful effects of cannabis use outside of medical settings. The Russian Federation intends to promote a society free of drug problems, he added, calling for more effort to be made in terms of prevention. He also recalled that the UNODC is the main body in the UN system to respond to this problem.
Mr. LEONIDCHENKO, speaking on behalf of several countries that have proposed a statement, said these States advocate addressing UN resolutions, including 74/247 (2019) on “Countering the use of information and communications technologies for criminal purposes”. The States favour respecting the inviolable principles of the Charter, he underscored, stressing that all future conventions must respect the sovereignty of nations and human rights in combatting information and communications technology (ICT) crimes, he said. Moreover, the States also favour increasing international cooperation and emphasize that any convention should supply tools to combat new and emerging ICT threats as well as provide technical assistance to developing States to that end. He called on any interested Member States to join the statement.
CARLA MARIA RODRÍGUEZ MANCIA (Guatemala) said her country has demonstrated its robust commitment to fighting crime in all its forms, reiterating the importance of efforts to strengthen institutions that combat human trafficking. More people are now thought to be victims of human trafficking than slavery in previous eras, and curbing it must be a priority, she said, adding that human trafficking is more profitable than arms trafficking. She took note of the sixth session of the Ad Hoc Committee to Elaborate a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes held in New York in August, calling on States to ensure the proposed consensus-based text includes references to human rights and expressing the need for a legally binding instrument on the issue. She reiterated that combating cybercrime demands cooperation between States, stressing that illegal drugs, particularly synthetic ones, are “an invisible enemy” that affects both governance and health and slows the development of countries.
MAURICIO REZA BAUTISTA (Mexico) said the lack of job and educational opportunities and the persistence of poverty and social exclusion have created conditions for transnational organized crime to flourish. With the aim of overcoming obsolete and punitive paradigms that exacerbate the vulnerability of the most unprotected sectors without considering the problem of origin, his Government proposes a comprehensive approach to address the structural causes of violence and crime. This includes complementary policies between the fight against crime and criminal justice with preventive strategies focused on achieving sustainable development across economic, social and environmental dimensions. In this fight, information and communications technologies offer great opportunities to enhance development, expand rights, close inequality gaps and promote inclusion, well‑being and justice. However, they can also represent fertile ground for the commission of crimes, he said, underscoring the need for international cooperation, the exchange of information and legal assistance mechanisms, since no country can face this global challenge in isolation.
MAURIZIO MASSARI (Italy), aligning himself with the European Union, submitted a draft resolution on the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice that proposes the biennialization of the resolution, while keeping both the Secretary-General’s report and high-level debate on an annual basis. He suggested “Crime Prevention and Sustainable Development through Sports” and “A Second Chance: Addressing the Global Prison Challenge” as themes for future sessions. He went on to stress the significance of follow-up mechanisms and processes related to the Kyoto Declaration and the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime. Further, he highlighted the importance of access to justice for all, policies targeted at young people, the fight against the illicit trade in cultural goods, protection of the environment and prevention of gender-related violence.
NICHAMON MAY HSIEH (Thailand), associating herself with ASEAN, stressed that access to justice is a human right. Last year, Thailand enacted the Justice Procedure Duration Act, which establishes the time frame for all stages of the justice process to guarantee transparency and accountability. Technology can enable crimes beyond borders, and solutions require multi-stakeholder international efforts. The criminal justice system should be designed based on a victim-centred approach, she added. Most recently, Thailand established a National Referral Mechanism (NRM) to ensure that victims of trafficking in persons are protected at every step, based on principles such as trauma-informed care and the determination of the victim’s best interest. Thailand’s long-standing policy of “drug users are patients” encourages drug users to apply for treatment so that they are better prepared physically as well as mentally for reintegration into society, she said. In this programme, prevention and rehabilitation, rather than stigmatization, is prioritized.
JOSHUA E. JESUDASON (Singapore) said cyberenabled scams have risen in scale, complexity and pervasiveness across many jurisdictions in recent years. The increasing digitalization of the economy has created new platforms and opportunities for criminals to siphon funds and data. More than 50 per cent of respondents whom the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) surveyed in South‑East Asia reported that they have had money stolen online, and 72 per cent said that they have experienced at least one form of online scam. As an open and connected economy, Singapore is especially vulnerable, he said, noting that to address these challenges, his country organized a Regional Anti-Scam Conference, bringing together 15 countries and international law enforcement stakeholders. The conference discussed steps to improve coordination on cross-border enforcement operations and facilitate information-sharing. In addition, it has established strong public-private partnerships with banks, digital platforms and other private stakeholders of the digital economy to strengthen safety nets against online fraud. Singapore also works closely with ASEAN partners to enhance its joint response to cybercrime through tight coordination, information-sharing and joint enforcement.
Turning to radicalization, especially through online content, he expressed strong concern over the global dissemination of terrorist content through the Internet. Young people are particularly vulnerable to the sway of extremist ideologies, which are peddled through seemingly innocuous online spaces such as gaming platforms. His Government takes the threat of Internet-driven radicalization seriously and collaborates closely with civil society to effectively address these risks, he highlighted, noting its close cooperation with ASEAN, UNODC and the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) to counter the use of technology to promote violent extremism.
LIU HAN (China) stressed that transnational corruption and narcotics trafficking hinder attempts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adding that the country punishes corruption to prevent recurrence and has always practiced drug control with thorough implementation. To deepen cooperation in regional drug control, China supports the establishment of the UNODC GlobE Network to end cross-border corruption and will host its plenary next year. Urging a speedy conclusion to negotiations on a treaty on cybercrime, she recalled the establishment of the Ad-Hoc Committee on the use of ICT for criminal purposes last year. She commended its progress on issues such as protection of personal data. While differences of perspective on some substantive issues still exist between Member States, she said, China looks forward to a new draft of a balanced convention that incorporates interlinkages between ICT crime and national practices as well as addresses the needs of developing countries.
SILAS SEKONYANA (South Africa) said the fight against transnational organized crime is a major challenge and a common and shared responsibility of all Member States of the United Nations. Such crime adversely affects States by putting a strain on resources that could otherwise be used to combat socioeconomic challenges. Addressing the root causes of organized crime by eradicating poverty, unemployment and inequality is a priority, he said, reiterating support for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and highlighting efforts that increase access to justice, raise awareness of constitutional rights and strengthen participation. In conclusion, he said the use of ICT for criminal purposes is also a challenge, advocating a legally binding instrument to counter it.
MOHAMMAD AAMIR KHAN (Pakistan) said that climate change, with its devastating impacts, provides new opportunities for organized criminal groups to infiltrate vulnerable legal systems. The world has also witnessed a concerning increase in hate crimes, Islamophobia and other provoking acts that incite intolerance and violence based on race, ethnicity, religion or belief. To effectively address organized crimes, it is important to adopt a holistic approach that tackles its root causes, promotes social inclusion, and ensures equal access to justice for all. The use of ICTs for criminal purposes facilitates and enables several other types of crimes including illicit financial flows and corruption, posing a substantial challenge to global security. He also added that the exponential proliferation of disinformation through online platforms and social media has exacerbated social discord, competing nationalisms, discrimination, hate speech, stigmatization, racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia and related intolerances.
IRINA VELICHKO (Belarus) voiced support for the expansion of the UNODC. Given the location of Belarus, transnational organized crime is a priority for the country, she said. Recalling the adoption of her country’s resolution, “Taking action against trafficking in persons in business operations, public procurement and supply chains for goods and services” at the thirty-second session of the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, she noted that, while ICT has been a boon, such technologies have also been an avenue for terrorism and other crimes such as drug trafficking. Voicing support for the adoption of new norms and legally binding documents in the area, she lauded the work of the Ad Hoc Committee to Elaborate a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes. Without clear rules, principles of digital sovereignty and neutrality must be emphasized, she said, recalling the country’s “good neighborliness” concept as a best practice.
NIZHAN FARAZ BIN RIZAL (Malaysia), aligning himself with ASEAN, said the advancement of technology has led to the emergence of new forms of crimes and has allowed criminals, both individuals and organizations alike, to conduct their heinous activities across borders and jurisdictions. As people become increasingly dependent on digital technologies in their day-to-day lives, criminals too are moving their operations into the virtual world. Additionally, economic hardships due to the COVID‑19 pandemic have increased the susceptibility of vulnerable groups of people to becoming victims of criminal activities. Malaysia is not exempted from this phenomenon, with many of its citizens falling victim to online job offer scams as well as cyberrelated scam activities, resulting in their being stranded or detained in neighbouring countries. On the issue of victims of overseas job opportunity scams, the Government established a special interagency committee in 2022 to assist Malaysians that have fallen prey to such syndicates. Collaborative efforts, especially within the region, are crucial in combating human trafficking perpetrated by these nefarious job scam syndicates.
LEONOR ZALABATA TORRES (Colombia) said her country is committed to resolving the root causes of violence and crime by addressing the lack of economic employment and educational opportunities. Colombia is focused on the protection of life and justice, which are the safeguards of human dignity, freedoms and social reconciliation, she said, adding that the Government is implementing a policy called “Security, Defense and Citizen Coexistence Policy 2022-2026, guarantees for life and peace” that prioritizes prosecution for crimes such as money laundering, extortion and smuggling. Given the transnational nature of organized crime, she stressed the importance of international cooperation. She expressed commitment to the Convention on Cybercrime negotiations and emphasized the need for international technical assistance to end illiteracy and the digital divide. The Convention should take into account the needs of the most vulnerable and reject any kind of discrimination, she said.
FATEMEH ARAB BAFRANI (Iran) said the increasing complexity and transnationality of crime necessitates international cooperation. Iran has maintained its leading role in fighting transnational organized crime in West Asia, in particular trafficking in persons, migrant smuggling and drug trafficking. Crimes committed and facilitated by the abuse of ICT extend beyond geographical boundaries, she said, reaffirming continued support for the work of the Ad Hoc Committee to Elaborate a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes. The upcoming negotiations must be guided by a comprehensive, well‑balanced negotiating document that fully considers the concerns and interests of developing countries. As for corruption, Iran has made considerable progress in implementing the Electronic Government and moving towards open data as a precondition for preventing corruption. Moreover, she said that the application of unilateral coercive measures continues to severely hinder effective responses to crimes and corruption on a national and global scale.
JOÃO HENRIQUE NASCIMENTO DIAS (Brazil) said that his country is committed to addressing the world drug problem through a multidisciplinary approach emphasizing human rights and tackling racism and environmental protection while countering discrimination, including State discrimination. Brazil views the drug problem as a public health issue and therefore part of its social development. The country has further strengthened international cooperation by adhering to the Budapest Convention on cybercrime. On trafficking, he noted that Brazil is both an origin and transit country, adding that a law on internal and external human trafficking with provisions on aid to victims has been established.
Mr. LEONIDCHENKO (Russian Federation), speaking in his national capacity, voiced support for global cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking in compliance with international law. International cooperation must be in good faith, however, as some countries politicize such cooperation in its key aspects, including extradition. Taking a firm stance against a drug tolerant world, he warned against the watering down of international systems for drug control and condemned the legalization of any drugs for non-medical purposes. On another matter, he recalled that several Russian colleagues were denied visas to enter the United States and participate in the General Assembly, condemning the country. He added that the United States has weaponized visa administration against his country and others, which will affect future negotiations and thus undermine the sovereignty of States. He called on the Secretariat to recognize the violation. On the Ad Hoc Committee to Elaborate a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes, he said the Russian Federation is committed to its work despite United States and Western interference.
AVITAL MIMRAN ROSENBERG (Israel) praised UNODC for addressing emerging threats in real time, noting that an imminent concern of Member States is the influx in distribution of the synthetic drug “captagon”. The origin of this stimulant drug is in Syria, and exports amount to billions a year, she said, expressing grave concern over its effect on youth, including lifelong addiction, crime and terrorism. The entity behind such illicit activity in Syria should be held accountable, she asserted, adding that special attention is needed to enhance the effectiveness of control over the exportation of precursor chemicals to Syria.
AHMAD SAMIR FAHIM HABASHNEH (Jordan) called the spread of drugs, crime and terrorism a major challenge for humanity. He emphasized the urgent need to enhance international cooperation to deal with the scourge, calling drugs a complicated and transnational crime. Combatting transnational crime requires international cooperation, he said. Technological developments and their link to criminal activities require Member States to comply with legislation that governs these issues, he said, stressing the need for a collective response. Jordan understands the importance of combatting terrorism and works closely with its partners. It is also combatting the spread of illicit drugs coming across its northern border with Syria due to the crisis there, he said, adding that several people have been captured along the border.
MOHAMMED AMIN SHAKER (Saudi Arabia) spotlighted various initiatives taken to combat cyberbullying and harassment, welcoming progress achieved on a comprehensive international convention on countering the use of ICTs for criminal purposes. He aligned his delegation with the statement presented by the Russian Federation regarding criminal justice and preventing crime. He further expressed concern regarding the use of ICTs for criminal purposes, particularly in the area of trafficking in persons. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral, regional, and international cooperation on these matters and urged the need to encourage the exchange of information to help fight these scourges. Saudi Arabia will continue to support international multilateral initiatives that aim to enhance international cooperation to deal with common challenges. Saudi Arabia will continue to actively contribute to achieving a more peaceful and just world.
NELLY BANAKEN ELEL (Cameroon) highlighted that, on July 25, 2023, her Government adopted a law on the protection of children online, which clearly identifies the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in cyberspace. The law places on the stakeholders a general obligation to ensure the safety of children in cyberspace through respect for their rights, awareness-raising and training, and also through an obligation to collaborate with the public sector. These obligations consist of suspending access to the Internet, digital content or social networks for a consumer author of content harmful to children. The Convention — currently being developed — relating to the use of ICT for criminal purposes should highlight the importance for all countries, particularly the most vulnerable ones, to participate in the fight against evolving risks. Cybercriminals are not constrained by borders, national legislation or sovereignty, she asserted, noting that it is up to States to ensure that sovereignty is respected while combating the use of ICT for criminal purposes.
YOANGEL VALIDO MARTÍNEZ (Cuba) said that addressing crime must be supported by poverty eradication and the development of a fairer, more balanced international order. He rejected the inclusion of Cuba by the United States on the list of state sponsors of terrorism, a list he described as “fraudulent”, saying the United States has no moral authority to compile such a list. He recognized the importance of conferences on preventing crime as a fundamental way to develop non-binding guidelines and facilitate the exchange of information and good practices and supported the mandate of the Ad Hoc Committee to Elaborate a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes, saying he hoped it will reflect the priorities of developing countries. He also spoke of radio electronic invasions from the United States and the use of social media to incite crime and destabilize the country.
EDWARD HEARTNEY (United States) said that reliable and inclusive access to the internet and digital technology supports progress on the SDGs. “But we must work to ensure that technologies are designed, developed, deployed and used in a responsible way,” he said. The United States remains concerned with the growing list of technological misuses for censorship, transnational repression, arbitrary or unlawful surveillance or other privacy violations and disinformation. These abuses disproportionately affect women and girls and LGBTQI persons as well as members of other marginalized communities. Activists lobbying for women's rights are being harassed and intimidated. Journalists are being targeted for factually reporting corrupt and authoritarian practices. The United States looks ahead to UN processes that seek to advance shared principles on the use of technologies. It also remains committed to working with all relevant stakeholders on approaches that drive innovation and inclusive economic growth.
KARINA BRAVO (Ecuador), highlighting the magnitude of organized transnational crime globally, said Ecuador acts locally and internationally. Locally, national legislation informed by international treaties and with support from UNODC has been implemented, she said, adding that the programme increases international cooperation, protects witnesses and victims and establishes a national cybersecurity committee. As technology evolves, so does the violence it produces, especially for women, increasing the gender divide, she warned. Underscoring the importance of international cooperation, with private sector and civil society organizations to address gender-based violence in the digital sphere and to increase accountability, she noted that the country itself was working with the UN to create a new convention addressing ICT.
MAŁGORZATA STADNICKA, youth delegate of Poland, said the youngest generation of today’s society is the first in history to be brought up in the fully digitalized era. The Internet helps the international community to respond to threats sooner, which was witnessed during the global COVID‑19 pandemic, when news of emergency isolation spread across the world on an unprecedented scale. In the future, systems of early warning — not only against epidemics, but against extreme weather conditions resulting from climate change such as hurricanes — can help mitigate rising human costs of such events. However, unequal access to the Internet poses a serious threat: While in many countries new digital technologies do, indeed, help in increasing transparency and ensuring accountability, it is still common enough for Governments to use Internet control as a tool in suppressing opposing movements and surveillance. Shutting down access to the Internet during protests is an unacceptable example of violation of the human right to freedom of expression, she asserted, also noting that cyberattacks need to be addressed as an emerging weapon of manipulation and warfare. The digitalized world has proved to be a platform to commit violations, she said, voicing deep concern that the Internet is being used to spread hatred, disinformation and outright lies targeting mostly persons in vulnerable situations, including those belonging to different minorities.
MOHAMED BUBA MARWA (Nigeria) said his country is ramping up law enforcement efforts to halt drug trafficking, as well as promoting evidence-based drug prevention, treatment and care programmes. The proliferation of cannabis and new psychoactive drugs, fueled by poverty and armed conflict in Nigeria, is concerning, he added, noting that the country is combating drug use through a national security plan targeting the most troubled communities. Progress has also been made in early prevention programmes in schools and communities, he said, detailing the country’s “Unplugged” drug programme. The country’s drug law enforcement agency has successfully apprehended over 30,000 offenders, including 38 drug barons, he added. Bilateral and multilateral cooperation have expanded through joint operations and capacity building, he added. Nigeria will continue to identify gaps and build bridges to dismantle drug trafficking cartels while bolstering policies to protect vulnerable groups affected, such as women and displaced persons, he said.
BRIAN CHRISTOPHER MANLEY WALLACE (Jamaica), speaking on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) said his bloc continues to grapple with concerning levels of criminal activity, partly due to its porous borders. Challenges include the smuggling of drugs and firearms, money laundering, human trafficking, irregular migration and, more recently, emerging threats in the domain of cyberspace, he said. Most serious crimes have been committed with the use of illegal firearms purchased outside the region, he said. Human trafficking is just one of the issues that plague CARICOM, he added, noting the existence of several initiatives to combat that challenge. He expressed his support for the Ad Hoc Committee to Elaborate a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes.
He stressed the importance of bridging the digital divide within and among countries, increasing the access to quality education and health care, creating employment opportunities and ultimately achieving the SDGs. Small island developing States, like those of CARICOM, are particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks and continue to work to guard against them, he said, calling for enhanced international cooperation on the issue.
JULIEN WALD, youth delegate of Luxembourg, said that the development of social networks and innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence, has revolutionized segments of economies and societies. Young people in Luxembourg discuss Internet-based harassment, the increase in misinformation, and digital addiction. “We need to correct against abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence,” he added. Artificial intelligence has major potential, but the world cannot neglect its dependency on data, either partial or complete data. The effective regulation of data should be coupled with strong data protection. The technology of artificial intelligence is making more rapid headway than legislators; however, an overly rushed regulation could lead to legal loopholes and divergences. “Our law needs to be holistic, and it needs to be forward looking,” he added. It also needs to offer flexibility to react to new developments. Common rules need to be set down for the entire digital world.
DANIEL ZAVALA PORRAS (Costa Rica) said the growth of organized crime is a global challenge, pointing to research by the Global Organized Crime Index, which this year reported 83 per cent of the world's population live in conditions of high crime. As one example, he pointed to the illegal arms trade, which originates in the northern hemisphere but affects the Central American region. He welcomed the agenda proposed by the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice for the fifteenth congress, with its focus on people-centered justice and combatting online violence. He highlighted several priorities, including the delivery of justice at the community level, and seizing the opportunity presented by the New Agenda for Peace to make prevention and international cooperation efforts more efficient. “Too many times we are too late,” he said.
BLANDINA RUTH VIDITHA ADELEIDE PELLA (Indonesia), aligning with ASEAN, said that her country is focusing on ensuring access to justice, which is the backbone of a great nation. Over 600 programmes have been established nationwide dedicated to ensuring it; they have trained paralegals, and funded justice initiatives in all the provinces of the country. Looking toward the future, she said that staying ahead of the rapid evolution of cybercrime is a priority. To that end, cybersecurity programmes have been established in Indonesia to cover banks and other institutions. Indonesia has a human-centred approach to the fight against drugs, she said, adding that rehabilitation programmes are available when drug traffickers are brought to justice.
JOAN MARGARITA CEDANO (Dominican Republic), cited corruption as “an important threat to the rule of law and to the economic and social stability”, which reduces trust in institutions, erodes public resources and perpetuates inequality. To combat this scourge, it is crucial to strengthen relevant institutions, transparency and accountability, including through the protection of informers, and the effective application of law. To achieve transparency in the fight against corruption in the country, her Government established, as a national priority, an independent public ministry and anti-fraud unit to investigate criminal structures beyond individual cases. States must tackle in a timely fashion emerging crimes such as cybercrime, she said, stressing that terrorism, human trafficking and corruption continue to be sources of human suffering, inequality and injustice and great obstacles to the fulfilment of the SDGs.
BISMARK ANYANAH (Ghana) said that, despite the positive use of ICT, these technologies have been used to exploit women and children online, recruit vulnerable youth into extremist ideologies and terrorist networks and propagate hate speech. He said it was important to leverage the tools available at the international level to harness the benefits of ICT and curtail vices associated with it. Existing global and regional initiatives to curb corruption and cybercrime remain essential, he said, and called for adequate funding and capacity-building to support developing countries, especially in Africa. He said mainstreaming gender into national ICT strategies is an essential priority.
ROBERT DAVID MURPHY, Deputy Permanent Observer of the Holy See, emphasized that scientific progress and technology “must be placed at the service of the dignity of the person” While the overall development of ICTs is positive, he highlighted concerns over their criminal use to produce and distribute child pornography. The Holy See also expressed concern over human traffickers’ use of ICT to profile, recruit, control and exploit their victims as well as to launder profits. He welcomed efforts by international organizations to regulate artificial intelligence so that they “promote genuine progress”.
In a separate statement, the Holy See called the rule of law “vital for the protection of each human being”, and urged that human dignity be placed at the core of efforts to improve criminal justice systems. Further, he spoke out against the death penalty, as an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person. Expressing concern over prison conditions, he said the criminal justice system fails in its objective of promoting reintegration when prisons offer inhumane conditions to detainees.
GABRIELA GONZÁLEZ (Uruguay) highlighted what she called “the new front” against international crime, as digital technologies have created new opportunities but also new ways to do harm, and emphasized the importance of protecting both individuals and institutions in cyberspace. Of special importance is the protection of women from gender-based violence in the digital world, she said, underscoring the need for legal tools. She also pointed out the importance of protecting children from digital harm. On the national level, she recognized the importance of having qualified judiciary, police and prosecutors with the necessary tools to identify and combat the crimes that take place in cyberspace. The fight against cybercrime is urgent but should not be an excuse for a violation of personal information, she said.
ELEANE YAOSKA PICHARDO URBINA (Nicaragua) said her delegation is committed to international cooperation in forming an integral strategy to counter the global problem of drugs. Nicaragua has a national strategy to fight against drugs, which has people as its focus. This strategy is carried out every day among institutions through policies and actions directed towards prevention, and ensuring that young people do not get involved in drugs. She urged all States to develop and apply effective measures to prevent, combat and eliminate all forms of human trafficking. A future international convention on the fight against the use of ICT for criminal purposes must respect the principles of the UN Charter and must respect and protect the sovereignty of States.
HANAA BOUCHIKHI (Morocco) said her country combats corruption through legislative frameworks as well as strong repression. Combatting drugs and psychotropic substances is also a priority and, to that end, a strategy put in place curbs supply and demand, she said, highlighting successes: the seizure of tons of cannabis; ten tons of cocaine; and other various psychotropic substances. Policy reform has recently focused not only prevention of communicable diseases between drug-users, she added, but combatting synthetic drugs, especially tramadol in Africa. Morocco’s efforts to combat human trafficking include a national framework that protects victims, she added. Following an explosion of Internet users in recent years, Morocco established a strategy to combat cybercrime, focusing on protecting private data as well as national institutions’ systems. Hailing the work of the UNODC, she underscored the importance of international cooperation in the fight against organized crime.
SHO ONO (Japan) said that shared values, including the rule of law, have become increasingly crucial in recent times, especially in light of international events such as Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Separately, he said the rise of the unlawful production, distribution and use of synthetic drugs posed a significant threat to public health and global security. With the rise in international travel and an expansion into cyberspace, drug supply is becoming increasingly sophisticated, requiring an intensification of efforts to counter these emerging threats, he said. Working with the UNODC and other organizations, Japan is supporting capacity building and facilitating networking among law enforcement authorities. With a growing dependence on ICTs, the threat of transnational cybercrime is growing. In response, Japan is participating in discussions to elaborate a UN cybercrime convention and is determined to continue its efforts together with the international community.
EKATERINE LORTKIPANIDZE (Georgia), aligning herself with the European Union, said her country is committed to continuing its reforms in the field of criminal justice, and to contributing to joint efforts to ensure and protect human rights. She said Georgia valued its cooperation with UNODC, and stressed that combatting trafficking in human beings is one of her Government’s key priorities. Additionally, she said Georgia’s Parliament in 2022 adopted new legislation to fight against corruption, including the development and monitoring of anti-corruption policies. With respect to drug policy, Georgia continues with active implementation of a “human-centered and liberalized drug policy,” she said, in full compliance with the principles and guarantees of the EU Drug Strategy 2021-2025.
KYAW MOE TUN (Myanmar) said that various initiatives were taken over past decades to address illicit drug trafficking, starting with the signing of the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961. Unfortunately, progress was reversed by the illegal military coup in February 2021, he said, citing a reported 33 per cent growth in opium cultivation and a nearly doubling of opium production in the past year. Additionally, methamphetamine production and trafficking across Myanmar’s border has increased, he said. Myanmar has become a destination for transnational organized crimes with a huge spike in illegal drug smuggling, human trafficking and the expansion of sophisticated cyberscams. The National Unity Government of Myanmar recently formed a “central committee” to prevent threats of illicit drugs, he said, reiterating his call for the international community to support Myanmar to help eradicate drugs and crimes and restore democracy.
BILLEL HASSANI (Algeria) said the growing interdependence and linkages between different forms of crime, such as terrorism, illicit drug and human trafficking, cybercrime, corruption and money laundering, require the strengthening of international cooperation. Addressing the root causes and ensuring equal justice for all is of particular importance to the response, he noted. Algeria has taken steps to counter such crimes, including the passage of a law in 2023 to curb human trafficking; a bill supplementing and amending a law curbing the illicit use and trafficking in narcotics; and the launch of a strategy to prevent and fight against corruption. He expressed support for a comprehensive international convention countering the use of ICT for criminal purposes, noting that it will undoubtedly help to better address concerns emerging from rapid technological advancements.
CHRISTIAN FAYIA YAJAH (Sierra Leone) said ICT represents humanity’s biggest revolution. Internet-based technologies offer opportunities for economic and social development, especially in developing countries such as Sierra Leone. However, with that has also come malicious cyberactivity that fuels conflict, death and destruction, while also threatening democracy and human rights, he said. Digital platforms are being misused to spread disinformation and hate, and even some United Nations peacekeeping missions and humanitarian aid operations have been targeted, making their work even more dangerous, he said. On 10 August 2022, 20 civilians and seven active police servicemen in Sierra Leone were killed because of hate speech using digital technology, he said, adding that the Government has developed a 10‑year National Innovation and Digital Strategy.
ROBERT ALEXANDER POVEDA BRITO (Venezuela) stressed the need to strengthen bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation frameworks to fight against “criminal mafias”. Only a truly multilateral and inclusive approach can combat corruption effectively. In that sense, Venezuela rejects any unilateral attempt to evaluate the performance of States in this area. Further, he said that Venezuela condemns all crimes against migrants. That includes slavery, sexual and labour exploitation, discrimination, xenophobia and multiple violations of fundamental rights that exacerbate their suffering. Unilateral coercive measures represent a global disgrace and must be recognized for what they are. These measures go against the “essence of law” and only impose a hegemonic vision of power for political control, he added.
ZEBIB GEBREKIDAN (Eritrea), lauding the work of the UNODC, said that Eritrea has undertaken measures to improve access to justice, including prison reform, since independence. Moreover, legislative frameworks exist to combat trafficking in persons in cooperation with regional actors. Voicing concern over advances in trafficking due to more sophisticated techniques using ICT, including simplified evidence destruction, she said the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime remains an important legal framework in addressing trafficking in persons. Money loss due to ICT crimes is in the trillions, she stressed, welcoming the work of the Ad Hoc Committee to Elaborate a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes, which must adhere to the principles of the UN Charter, she underscored.
İSMAIL AYDİL (Türkiye) said his country is determined to combat terrorism in all its manifestations. Nationally, it fights against all terrorist organizations, including Da’esh and PKK/PYD [Kurdish Workers’ Party/Democratic Union Party]. Evidence shows that these organizations finance their activities through organized crime and trafficking of persons, drugs and firearms, he said. Yesterday’s terrorist attack in Ankara is yet another example. Urging all countries to bring terrorist organizations to justice, he underscored that effective implementation of the universal principle of “extradite or prosecute” is crucial. Voicing concern over the use of ICT for criminal purposes, especially human trafficking, he said that the crime is one of the most serious violations of human rights, with nefarious social and economic consequences. In response, the Government implemented its “National Action Plan on Fight against Human Trafficking”, he said, calling on the international community to strengthen cooperation in its fight against organized crime.
ELIE ALTARSHA (Syria) said he shares the concerns of other countries regarding the legalization of cannabis in certain countries. This violates the three conventions against trafficking illegal drugs, he said, adding his commitment to fighting this danger. “We shall spare no effort to achieving that end,” he said. He went on to say that the statement of the Israeli occupation authority is nothing but an attempt to hide their crimes committed daily against the Palestinian people and the Syrian people in the occupied Syrian Golan, he said, adding it was beneath him to reply to their statement. Regarding item 108, countering the use of information and communications technologies for criminal purposes, he did not wish to deliver a statement, he said.
NASHWA HILAL AL SINANI (Oman) said human trafficking is undeniably a harmful phenomenon, which requires the international community to fight with all the legal means at its disposal. It is an inhuman act which undermines the dignity of people and goes against basic human values. Human trafficking is a global phenomenon, which doesn't spare any country. Oman takes this matter very seriously. It supports all the international efforts to fight human trafficking and calls on the UN to strengthen its efforts in this area. “We need to tackle the root causes of this phenomenon as well as its repercussions instead of leaving it to politics,” she said.
HEBA MOSTAFA MOSTAFA RIZK (Egypt) noted that her country is implementing the third national strategy on combatting trafficking in persons, which focuses on prosecution and prevention, adopting a holistic approach and interlinkages with other crimes. Stressing the importance of international cooperation from a social and economic standpoint, she aligned with the statement delivered by the Russian Federation on behalf of a group of countries. Expressing alarm about the proliferation of crimes on social media, she noted that States are obligated to revise regulations and ethical parameters to counter ICT-aided criminality and that private sector actors have a role to play. Similarly, she voiced grave concern that women and girls are the primary targets of emerging criminal trends aided by technology, including human trafficking. Egypt advocates for the restitution of cultural property to their countries of origin as well as illicit funds, she said.
DJENEBA DABO N'DIAYE (Mali) began by expressing her solidarity with the people and Government of Türkiye after the atrocity they experienced. Her government has redoubled its effort to combat the scourge of illicit drugs and has put in place an anti-drug authority to fight transnational organized crime, she said, adding that legal codes in this area have been revised to bolster the legal framework. The Government has also taken steps to counter drug-related crime and improve security by adding resources for the police and security services. She pointed out that the Government works closely with neighbouring countries to bolster border security through joint operations and patrols. Fighting drugs is related to fighting terrorism, she said, adding that no country is safe from transnational organized crime.
CONOR C. MAENPAA, Sovereign Order of Malta, said that crime is a formidable adversary that knows no boundaries. “It's insidious presence seeps into the fabric of our societies, undermining peace, security and development,” he added, stressing the need to recognize that effective crime prevention is not solely about punishment. It begins long before the commission of a crime. It hinges on addressing the root causes, which include, but are not limited to, poverty, inequality, lack of education, and social exclusion. Criminal justice systems must be fair, transparent, and efficient. They must ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, have access to due process and are treated with dignity and respect. The United Nations work in promoting rule of law is central to achieving this objective.
Right of Reply
Speaking in exercise of the right of reply, the Russian Federation called the accusations made by the representative of the European Union baseless. The bloc could concern itself with the “crises” it had a hand in creating such as the destruction of Libyan statehood, he said. Furthermore, the corruption and weapons trafficking under discussion today are a direct result of pumping Kyiv full of money and weapons — which was taking place long before Moscow’s special military operation.