The United Arab Emirates has opened the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi, marking the start of a major global gathering focused on strengthening the rule of law, improving justice systems and addressing emerging criminal threats in the digital age.
A key outcome of the opening session was the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration, which will serve as the Congress’s main political and strategic framework for the next five years. The document is expected to guide international cooperation and policy efforts in crime prevention, criminal justice and the rule of law through 2031.
The declaration was approved by participating countries and international representatives attending the event. It outlines shared priorities and commitments aimed at improving public safety, strengthening justice institutions and responding to rapidly changing criminal challenges around the world.
The Abu Dhabi Declaration is built around four main pillars. These include prevention and resilience, justice and the rule of law, evolving and converging criminal threats, and innovation and cooperation. Together, the pillars are reflected in 18 articles and 67 paragraphs that form the foundation of the agreement.
Among the priorities strongly promoted by the UAE are the protection of women and children, the responsible use of artificial intelligence and environmental considerations within criminal justice systems. Officials said these areas reflect growing global concerns that require coordinated international action.
The declaration also addresses a wide range of modern criminal challenges. These include organised crime, cybercrime, illicit financial activities, corruption and the misuse of emerging technologies. Participants highlighted the need for stronger international cooperation as criminal networks increasingly operate across borders.
Artificial intelligence received significant attention during discussions. The declaration supports the responsible and ethical use of AI and other advanced technologies in criminal justice systems while encouraging safeguards that protect rights and maintain public trust.
The agreement also focuses on improving support for victims, witnesses and vulnerable groups. Member states emphasized the importance of ensuring access to justice and strengthening protections for those affected by crime.
Other priorities include recovering criminal assets, combating illicit financial flows and expanding international legal cooperation. The declaration calls for stronger mutual legal assistance, improved extradition processes and closer collaboration among countries when investigating cross-border crimes.
Women’s participation in criminal justice systems is another major focus. The declaration encourages greater inclusion of women in justice institutions and supports efforts to combat violence against women through stronger legal protections and enforcement measures.
Child-sensitive justice systems also form a key part of the framework. The document promotes policies designed to protect children and ensure that justice procedures consider their specific needs and rights.
The opening ceremony also marked the launch of Pledge4Justice, a new platform designed to transform political commitments into practical action. The initiative aims to support implementation of the Abu Dhabi Declaration through projects, partnerships and capacity-building programs around the world.
As part of the launch, the UAE announced the first contribution to the initiative. The country pledged up to $5 million through annual contributions of up to $1 million between 2026 and 2031.
Officials said the funding will support international efforts to strengthen justice systems, improve institutional capacity and help countries implement commitments outlined in the declaration. The contribution is intended to ensure that outcomes from the Congress lead to measurable and lasting benefits for communities worldwide.
The Congress is being held under the theme “Accelerating Crime Prevention, Criminal Justice and the Rule of Law: Protecting People and Planet and Achieving the 2030 Agenda in the Digital Age.”
The event brings together government leaders, policymakers, legal experts and international organizations from around the world. Organizers said the program includes 15 major events, 93 speakers, 200 side meetings and an exhibition featuring 38 stands.
With the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration and the launch of Pledge4Justice, the Congress has established a roadmap for international cooperation on crime prevention and justice reform. Participants hope the initiatives will strengthen global efforts to address both traditional and emerging threats while promoting security, fairness and the rule of law in an increasingly digital world.
