Abu Dhabi Hosts Largest UN Crime Prevention Congress
Abu Dhabi is set to host the biggest UN crime‑prevention congress, drawing 97 nations to tackle borderless crime and AI ethics. The event will produce the Abu Dhabi Declaration, a roadmap for the next five years, and feature youth and women forums for the first time.
By Felo News Desk · Published
From September 26 to October 1, Abu Dhabi will welcome the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, the largest gathering of its kind in history. With 97 countries represented, the congress will focus on the growing threat of cross‑border crime, the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence, and the need for stronger international cooperation.
Why the Congress Matters
Crime today knows no borders. From organised crime syndicates to cyber‑fraud and human‑trafficking networks, the global nature of illicit activity demands a coordinated response. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has long promoted international collaboration, but the scale of this congress signals a heightened urgency. By convening ministers, judges, and experts from around the world, the event aims to create a shared framework for prevention, investigation, and justice.
Abu Dhabi’s Vision for Justice and AI Ethics
Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, UAE Minister of Justice, opened the event in Dubai, stressing that “security and justice are shared responsibilities.” He highlighted the rapid evolution of crime, noting a shift from traditional organised crime and money laundering to newer threats such as crimes against children and women. Al Nuaimi also underscored the dual role of technology: while it can facilitate crime, it also offers tools for detection and prevention. He called for a global framework that ensures technology serves justice and humanity, keeping people at the centre of legal processes.
Judge Dr Hatem Fouad Aly, the UNODC Regional Representative for the Gulf, echoed this sentiment. He described the congress as a timely platform to address the “very sensitive circumstances” that threaten state security and individual safety. The UAE’s role as chair of the organising committee signals its commitment to fostering dialogue and building consensus on how to strengthen law‑enforcement and justice systems worldwide.
The Abu Dhabi Declaration: A Five‑Year Roadmap
The congress will culminate in the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration, a set of 18 articles that will guide member states over the next five years. Each country will assess the declaration’s recommendations against its own legal framework and decide which measures to implement. The UAE will prioritize five key areas: protection of children, youth and women; regulation of artificial intelligence; environmental security; and counter‑terrorism and organised crime.
Abdulrahman Murad Al Balooshi, Assistant Undersecretary for International Cooperation and Legal Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Justice, explained that the declaration will serve as a “road map” for countries to strengthen cooperation, share best practices, and monitor progress. The document is expected to influence national policies, judicial reforms, and cross‑border investigative protocols.
New Voices and Expanded Participation
For the first time, the congress will feature a two‑day youth forum on September 24‑25, inviting young people to contribute to policy discussions. A dedicated women’s forum will also be held, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to gender‑inclusive justice. In addition, private‑sector partners will join the dialogue for the first time, recognising the critical role businesses play in preventing organised crime and terrorism.
These additions reflect a broader trend in international criminal justice: the inclusion of non‑state actors and civil society to create more holistic and effective responses to crime. By giving youth, women, and the private sector a platform, the congress aims to generate fresh ideas and foster a sense of shared ownership among all stakeholders.
What Happens Next?
During the congress, participants will hold 200 meetings, 15 main events, and 38 specialised exhibitions, offering ample opportunities for networking and knowledge exchange. The Abu Dhabi Declaration will be presented and debated in plenary sessions, after which member states will vote to adopt it. Following the congress, the UAE will work with the UN and partner organisations to monitor implementation, share progress reports, and adjust strategies as needed.
As the world grapples with increasingly sophisticated criminal networks and emerging technologies, the congress represents a pivotal moment for global governance. By uniting 97 countries under a common agenda, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a hub for justice innovation and international cooperation.
Key facts
- Abu Dhabi hosts the largest UN crime‑prevention congress, drawing 97 countries.
- The event will produce the Abu Dhabi Declaration, a five‑year roadmap for justice reforms.
- Youth and women forums will be held for the first time, expanding participation.
- The UAE will focus on children, youth, women, AI, and environmental security.
- Private‑sector partners will join the dialogue, recognising their role in crime prevention.
Why it matters
The congress brings together unprecedented numbers of governments and experts to tackle borderless crime and AI ethics, creating a concrete action plan that could reshape global crime‑prevention strategies.
Frequently asked questions
What is the United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice?
It is an annual gathering of governments, judges, and experts that discusses global crime trends, prevention strategies, and justice reforms.
How many countries will attend the 15th congress?
Ninety‑seven countries are expected to participate.
What will the Abu Dhabi Declaration cover?
The declaration will include 18 articles outlining actions on children, youth, women, AI ethics, environmental security, and counter‑terrorism.
Will private companies be involved?
Yes, for the first time, private‑sector partners will participate in the congress.
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Abu Dhabi to Welcome Biggest UN Crime Prevention Congress as UAE Leads International Cooperation on Justice and AI Ethics”
