UN member states adopt Abu Dhabi Declaration on crime in the digital age

UN member states adopted the Abu Dhabi Declaration on 26 September 2026, as the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice opened in Abu Dhabi. The declaration sets priorities for international action on crime prevention, criminal justice and the rule of law over the next five years.

The declaration covers a broad range of issues, including organised crime, cybercrime, online fraud, the use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies in criminal justice, illicit financial flows, and international legal cooperation. It is structured around four areas: prevention and resilience; justice and the rule of law; evolving and converging criminal threats; and innovation and cooperation.

Technology is a particular focus of the framework. The declaration addresses the criminal use of digital technologies while also supporting the responsible use of artificial intelligence and modern technologies in criminal justice. It also covers electronic evidence and virtual assets, reflecting the growing role of digital tools and infrastructure in both crime and law enforcement.

The framework also stresses international cooperation and partnerships. The Congress brings together governments alongside representatives of international organisations, civil society, academia and the private sector. Its discussions include capacity building, technical assistance and cooperation in responding to emerging forms of crime.

The Abu Dhabi Declaration builds on the Kyoto Declaration adopted at the previous UN Crime Congress in 2021. Its implementation is expected to guide international cooperation on crime prevention and criminal justice over the coming five years.