UAE to host 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice

The UAE will host the 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi from September 26 to October 1, state news agency WAM reported.

What is the UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice?

The congress is a UN event held every five years that brings together governments, experts and civil society groups. It focuses on crime prevention, criminal justice and the rule of law. The Abu Dhabi edition marks a new chapter for the event and reflects the UAE's commitment to global justice and security efforts.

Since its first session in Geneva in 1955, the congress has served as an international platform for multilateral action. It has supported dialogue among states, the exchange of expertise, and the development of standards and policies in crime prevention and criminal justice.

The Abu Dhabi congress will also offer a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and knowledge sharing. It aims to support efforts to protect people, communities, and the environment, while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

How has the congress evolved since 1955?

The congress's agenda has expanded significantly since its founding, according to the United Nations. Early discussions focused on prison conditions and juvenile offenders, while more recent sessions have covered organized and transnational crime, cybercrime, artificial intelligence, and environmental crimes.

The first congress took place in Geneva from August 22 to September 3, 1955. It drew 512 participants from 61 countries, with discussions centered on juvenile delinquency, open penal institutions, and the training of prison personnel.

What happened at the last congress in Kyoto?

The 14th congress was held in Kyoto, Japan, in 2021, after being postponed from 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It gathered around 5,600 participants from 152 member states, 37 intergovernmental organizations, and 114 non-governmental organizations.

Delegates at that congress adopted the Kyoto Declaration on Advancing Crime Prevention, Criminal Justice and the Rule of Law. The declaration emphasized the links between crime prevention, the rule of law, and sustainable development.

What is the theme of the Abu Dhabi congress?

The 15th congress carries the theme "Accelerating crime prevention, criminal justice and the rule of law: Protecting people and planet and achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in the digital age."

The event is expected to draw between 3,000 and 5,000 participants from more than 97 countries. More than 32 justice ministers are expected to attend, along with 93 speakers representing countries and regional groups.

The congress will also include 62 high-level participations, with 46 delegates attending in person and 16 joining virtually.

What outcomes is the congress expected to produce?

Organizers expect the congress to provide a platform for exchanging experiences and showcasing initiatives. It also aims to help build new partnerships among participating countries and organizations.

The goal is to produce practical outcomes and a lasting legacy supporting international efforts to advance criminal justice, prevent crime, and strengthen the rule of law.

From Geneva in 1955 to Abu Dhabi in 2026, the congress continues to serve as an international forum tracking the evolving scope of criminal justice. Organizers say it highlights the importance of international cooperation in protecting communities and supporting security, justice, and sustainable development.