UAE Hosts Historic UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice

Abu Dhabi welcomes the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, a landmark gathering of justice ministers and international experts to advance the rule of law and sustainable development in the digital age.

The United Arab Emirates is preparing to host one of the world’s most significant forums on international justice and crime prevention this week, as Abu Dhabi welcomes the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice from 26 September to 1 October.

The six-day congress represents a pivotal moment in the history of this venerable institution, which has convened international delegates since its inaugural session in Geneva in 1955. Over nearly seven decades, the congress has evolved to address the full spectrum of contemporary criminal justice challenges, from foundational questions of prison reform to emerging threats including cybercrime, transnational organised crime, environmental crimes and the implications of artificial intelligence.

Abu Dhabi 2026 is expected to draw between 3,000 and 5,000 participants from more than 97 countries, including more than 32 justice ministers and 93 high-level speakers. This unprecedented gathering will unite governments, legal experts, academics and civil society organisations under the unifying theme of “Accelerating crime prevention, criminal justice and the rule of law: Protecting people and planet and achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in the digital age”.

The congress convenes every five years as a platform for multilateral dialogue, expertise-sharing and the development of international standards and policies. At the 14th congress held in Kyoto, Japan in 2021, some 5,600 participants from 152 member states adopted the Kyoto Declaration, affirming the indivisible links between crime prevention, criminal justice, the rule of law and sustainable development objectives.

This year’s gathering will build upon that foundation, offering a forum for exchanging experience, showcasing innovative initiatives and forging new international partnerships. The congress promises to generate practical outcomes and establish a lasting legacy supporting global efforts to strengthen justice systems, prevent crime and advance security and stability across societies.

By hosting this landmark event, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to international cooperation in safeguarding communities, upholding the rule of law, and supporting the security, justice and sustainable development that form the bedrock of prosperous nations.

Source: WAM