The 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice was held in Abu Dhabi from September 28, 2026. The event brought together countries, officials, and experts from around the world to address key challenges in crime prevention and criminal justice. The Congress highlighted the UAE's commitment to strengthening international cooperation, justice, and the rule of law. Over two days, Abu Dhabi provided a global platform for ministers, officials, judges, prosecutors, experts, and representatives of international organisations, civil society, academia, and youth.
The Congress opened with the adoption of the "Abu Dhabi Declaration" as a key framework for international action over the next five years. Discussions focused on transnational organised crime and rapid technological change, including the criminal misuse of technology and artificial intelligence. Improving access to justice and strengthening institutions' ability to respond to emerging threats were also key topics. The broad participation reflected international interest in the Congress's outcomes and the UAE's role in bringing stakeholders together around a shared agenda for justice and the rule of law.
Youth, innovation, and international cooperation featured prominently in the discussions. Ministers and UN officials praised the UAE's organisation and preparations for the event. Takashi Yamashita, Japan's Minister of Justice, thanked the UAE government for hosting the Congress and stressed the importance of building on the legacy of previous congresses. He said the transition from Kyoto to Abu Dhabi continued international efforts to uphold the rule of law and strengthen cooperation on crime prevention and criminal justice.
Monica Juma, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, said the Congress demonstrated that multilateralism remained capable of bringing countries together to address pressing issues affecting people's daily lives. She praised Abu Dhabi's ability to convene a large number of countries and participants. Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, said the event provided an opportunity to renew the shared commitment to justice and the rule of law and translate it into practical action.
Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Malaysian Minister of Home Affairs, said his visit to Abu Dhabi in 2023 had introduced him to the concept of "energy for AI and AI for energy". He said the UAE's experience in harnessing technology and innovation could open new avenues for countries to develop solutions that enhance security and address future challenges. Dr. Bassam Al Talhouni, Minister of Justice of Jordan, stressed the importance of equal access to justice and the rule of law as foundations for building stable societies and strengthening confidence in justice institutions.
Leena Meri, Finland's Minister of Justice, said the UAE's hosting of the Congress helped strengthen multilateral cooperation on crime prevention and criminal justice. She noted that it facilitated the exchange of expertise and developed common responses to challenges facing societies amid rapid global change. The UAE's efforts to advance these principles and international cooperation in criminal justice were also highlighted.
The Congress provided a platform for countries to share experiences and best practices in addressing emerging challenges in crime prevention and criminal justice. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to justice and the rule of law, and a determination to translate this commitment into practical action. The UAE's role in bringing global partners together to strengthen justice and the rule of law was widely acknowledged.
Key points
- The UAE hosted the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi, bringing together global partners to strengthen justice and the rule of law.
- The Congress adopted the "Abu Dhabi Declaration" as a key framework for international action over the next five years, focusing on transnational organised crime, rapid technological change, and improving access to justice.
- The event provided a platform for countries to share experiences and best practices in addressing emerging challenges in crime prevention and criminal justice.
