Cybercrime Treaty Approved Despite Surveillance and Restriction Concerns

UN claims it will ensure human rights are protected online.

Intense opposition from cybersecurity experts, major tech firms, and human rights advocates has not prevented the United Nations General Assembly from approving by consensus the Convention against Cybercrime.

According to The Record, the consensus is due to be signed in Hanoi next year.

Despite concerns of potential cybersecurity research curtailment and nation-state misuse for excessive surveillance and other human rights violations, UNGA President Philemon Yang noted that the UN cybercrime treaty is crucial in bolstering global cooperation against cybercrime.

"The convention creates an unprecedented platform for collaboration in the exchange of electronic evidence, protection for victims, and prevention, while ensuring human rights are protected online," said UN Secretary-General Associate spokesperson Stephanie Tremblay.

Cyber Espionage Published: 27 December