On Friday, July 26, the United States, along with 40 fellow Member States of the Freedom Online Coalition (FOC), issued a joint statement on the UN Convention Against Cybercrime. In advance of the reconvened concluding session of the Ad Hoc Committee to elaborate a UN cybercrime convention, the Coalition reaffirmed its commitment that human rights offline must also be protected online.
The joint statement highlights the opportunity for the Convention to enhance international cooperation in combatting and preventing cybercrime and collecting and sharing electronic evidence for serious crimes. However, it raises concerns about potential misuse of the treaty as a tool for domestic and transnational repression and human rights abuses. The statement calls for a carefully defined scope accompanied by necessary safeguards to fully protect and promote human rights.
The Coalition remains determined to finalize a strengthened treaty that includes human rights provisions and safeguards. It is committed to working with countries globally in combating cybercrime.
As a founding Member of the FOC and past Chair, the United States continues to advance the Coalition’s mission globally. It promotes a rules-based, democratic, and inclusive world where human rights and fundamental freedoms are upheld in online and digital contexts. For further information on the Coalition, please visit the Freedom Online Coalition website.
