UN Crime Congress Advances Justice Innovation Through Digital Transformation and International Cooperation
The 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice convened in Abu Dhabi to explore people-centred justice systems, emerging crime challenges and the responsible deployment of artificial intelligence across law enforcement and judicial sectors.
Abu Dhabi hosted substantive deliberations on the fourth day of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, with delegates examining transformative approaches to criminal justice development and the integration of digital technologies within professional and ethical frameworks.
Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice and President of the Congress, engaged in bilateral discussions with representatives from Montenegro, the Dominican Republic, Uganda and the Czech Republic, reinforcing commitments to strengthen legal cooperation and institutional partnerships in combating organised and transnational crime.
A significant development emerged with the launch of the “Guiding Principles for the Use of Artificial Intelligence Systems by Law Firms” initiative, presented in the presence of Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State and Secretary-General of the UAE Cabinet. This initiative underscores alignment with the Abu Dhabi Declaration’s emphasis on ensuring that advanced technologies within the justice sector operate within robust professional and ethical safeguards.
Comprehensive discussions addressed the foundational elements of people-centred justice systems, encompassing investigative interviewing methodologies, the judiciary’s role in crime prevention, institutional integrity and independence, and equitable access to justice. Sessions also examined alternatives to capital punishment, mental health support for law enforcement personnel, and the implementation of international standards for women prisoners and non-custodial measures.
Workshop Four, titled “Turning the Digital Age into an Opportunity: Promoting the Responsible Use of Technologies in Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice”, explored how digital solutions enhance institutional efficiency whilst preserving transparency, accountability, privacy and fundamental rights. A complementary fireside chat examined artificial intelligence, advanced data analytics and digital technologies’ capacity to anticipate risks and strengthen real-time law enforcement capabilities.
The Congress addressed evolving criminal phenomena, including organised networks, terrorism and terrorist financing, and transnational organisations. A specialised session examined how emerging technologies might be exploited by terrorist groups, emphasising the necessity for enhanced legal and operational responses.
The UAE organised a distinctive session titled “Towards a Balanced Strategy for Wildlife Protection: From Enforcement to Conservation”, integrating legal measures with ecosystem protection and biodiversity objectives. Environmental crime discussions encompassed outer-space threats, shipping’s role, economic crime in the gold sector and money laundering in art and antiquities markets.
The Congress, convening at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi until 1st October, continues to facilitate international dialogue on advancing shared vision for crime prevention, criminal justice and the rule of law.
Source: WAM