French Justice Minister Highlights Abu Dhabi 2026 Congress as Catalyst for Global Crime Prevention Cooperation
France's Minister of Justice Gérald Darmanin has emphasised the significance of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in fostering international collaboration on security challenges.
The 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, being hosted in Abu Dhabi during 2026, represents a pivotal platform for advancing global cooperation in tackling organised crime and criminal justice matters, according to French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin.
In remarks to the Emirates News Agency, Minister Darmanin underscored the Congress’s role in promoting meaningful international dialogue and enabling coordinated action between nations, ministries of justice and interior organisations. He characterised the event as an invaluable opportunity for countries to collaborate on matters of critical importance to both national and global security.
France’s participation in the Congress will centre upon several strategic priorities, with combating drug trafficking and environmental crime featuring prominently on the nation’s agenda. The minister highlighted the considerable bilateral cooperation already in place between France and the UAE in addressing narcotics trafficking, including collaborative efforts in the seizure of criminal proceeds and illicit funds.
Minister Darmanin identified the proliferation of cryptocurrency usage as an emerging challenge requiring enhanced international cooperation and systematic exchange of professional expertise. He emphasised that financial flows connected to criminal enterprises demand particular attention, necessitating strengthened mechanisms for identifying and preventing money laundering associated with illegal activities.
Environmental crime represents another focal point for French engagement at the Congress. The minister stressed the imperative of bolstering international cooperation to address the illicit proceeds and laundering of funds derived from crimes targeting natural resources and environmental integrity.
Expressing appreciation for the Congress’s comprehensive organisation, Minister Darmanin commended the United Arab Emirates and the United Nations for their collaborative efforts in hosting this significant international gathering. He noted the exceptional hospitality extended to participants and acknowledged the UAE’s commitment to facilitating productive dialogue on critical security matters.
The minister concluded by affirming that the Abu Dhabi Congress provides nations with an essential opportunity to exchange specialised knowledge, strengthen cooperative frameworks and coordinate comprehensive responses to contemporary challenges in crime prevention and criminal justice.
Source: WAM