CCPCJ35: Meeting 1 – 1 June 2026

Excellencies, distinguished representatives, dear guests, it is a great honor and pleasure to welcome you to the 35th session of the Commission. I would like to inform you that the opening session can also be followed in boardroom A via video transmission or online on UN Web TV. First, I'd like to make some brief Personal remarks, as I said, I feel very privileged to chair this week's meetings because it is an exceptional year for the CCPCJ with the UN Crime Congress coming up in September this year and as you know, the CCPCJ is the main preparatory but also follow-up body for the Congress. It is also an exceptional year for UNODC with a number of challenges, but also with a new executive director. We will come to welcoming Madam Juma in a minute, but of course we are very happy and feel very privileged that the CCPCJ in its 35th session is the first bigger event to be attended by the new executive director. Let me also say that the CCPCJ's 35th session is not only us here in the plenary or on the committee of the whole, It's also a platform or forum for interaction with the civil society, NGOs, academia, experts by means of more than 100 side events this week and many exhibitions. So I wish all of us a good and interesting week and let's get started. We need to first address some procedural and organizational matters. The extended Bureau held meetings on the 27th of January, 12th of February, 2nd of March, 16th of March, 9th of April, 13th of May and 28th of May 2026 to address all organizational issues. The organization of this session was also discussed during the pre-session consultations held on the 29th of May 2026. I would like to thank my colleagues in the extended Bureau and all permanent missions in Vienna who have actively participated in and contributed to the preparation of this session of the Commission. My special thanks go to my colleague, His Excellency Jose Antonio of Mexico for advancing the preparations for this session. Let me turn to the first item of the provisional agenda. which is election of officers at the end of its reconvened 34th session on the 5th December 2025, the Commission opened its 35th session to elect the new Bureau. The Commission elected His Excellency Ambassador Atsushi Kaifu of Japan as first vice chair, His Excellency Ambassador Mohamed Nasser of Egypt as second vice chair, Her Excellency Ambassador Eglantina Gjermeni of Albania as third vice chair, Mrs. Cecily Annette Sanchez Miranda of Guatemala as rapporteur, and myself as chair of the 35th session of the Commission. I wish to emphasize that I will chair this session of the Commission in full cooperation with the Bureau and I count on the constructive engagement of all delegations. I have asked the first Vice-Chair to assist in chairing the Committee of the Whole and I thank His Excellency Ambassador Atsushi Kaifu for his engagement in advance. Let us now turn to our agenda item two. Adoption of the provisional agenda and other organizational matters. The annotated provisional agenda and proposed organization of work for the 35th session of the Commission are contained in document E/CN.15/2026/1/Rev.1. And before we move on to the adoption today, I would like to share the following information. The plenary meetings will be held in this room and the meetings of the committee of the hall will be held in boardroom A in parallel. Meetings, meeting times for both plenary and COU are from 10 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 6 PM. I wish to recall that in line with decision 2025/321, the topic of the semantic discussion. which is agenda item five for this 35th session is consideration of the report of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. I also recall that in its decision 80/533 the General Assembly decided to postpone the holding of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal justice and to hold it in Abu Dhabi from the 26th of December to the 1st of October, 2026. Considering the postponement of the Congress and to work in an efficient manner, the following organizational arrangements for the regular and reconvened 35th session of the Commission were decided upon by silence procedure on the 17th of April. The thematic discussion on follow-up to the Crime Congress will be postponed to the reconvened session and be held on the 2nd of December 2026. And for the regular 35th session this week, the standard five-day duration of the session will be retained to provide flexibility to the Committee of the Whole, while the work of the plenary will be suspended on Wednesday, the 3rd of June. The workshop traditionally organized by the institutes comprising the United Nations Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Network PNI during the regular session of the Commission on the topic of the thematic discussion will not be conducted this year. Today the Commission will consider agenda item three, general debate. At the start of the afternoon session we will give the floor to a co-chair of the fourth Global Youth Forum for a culture of lawfulness that took place in Japan in March 2026 to present the recommendations of the youth forum to the Commission. Tomorrow we will continue agenda item three and finalize the general debate. We will then discuss agenda item four, which is strategic management, budgetary and administrative questions, and start considerations of agenda item six, integration and coordination of efforts by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and by member states in the field of crime prevention and criminal justice, which has several sub-items. On Thursday, 4th of June, the Commission will continue discussing agenda item six and also consider agenda item seven, which is use and application of United Nations standards and norms in crime prevention and criminal justice, and agenda item eight, world crime trends and emerging issues and responses in the field of crime prevention and criminal justice. And agenda item nine, follow up to the 15th Crime Congress and preparations for the 16th Crime Congress, where we will of course mainly focus on the preparatory work. Subsequently, we will turn to agenda item ten, contributions by the Commission to the work of the Economic and Social Council, and agenda item eleven, provisional agenda for this 36th session, agenda item 12, other business, and agenda item 13, adoption of the report. Considering time constraints, I count on everybody's support to adhere to the speaking time of three minutes for those speaking in their national capacity and five minutes of speaking time to chairs of regional groups. The committee of the whole will start this afternoon at 3:00 PM. with consideration of the draft proposals submitted by member states by the deadline of 4th of May. Sponsoring delegations of all resolutions had the opportunity to present their proposals during the pre-session consultations last week. The sessions of the committee of the whole will be conducted without interpretation. These arrangements are exceptional and time-bound, they are a direct consequence of the financial constraints affecting the provision of conference services, they constitute no precedent for future sessions of the Commission, and they are without prejudice to the application of Rule 30 of the Rules of Procedure of the functional commissions of ECOSOC, with the Commission reaffirming its commitment to multilingualism. I would like to thank delegations for their kind understanding and support. We will first move now to the adoption of the agenda and proposed organization of work and then to the formal adoption of the extraordinary organizational arrangements. Hence, can I invite the Commission to adopt the provisional agenda and the proposed organization of work? I see the distinguished representative of the United States. The floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States proposed an amendment last year to the title of agenda 10, agenda item 10 in the provisional agenda. As proposed, it contains unnecessary and objectionable reference to the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. As we have repeatedly noted, the United States has principled concerns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and we will no longer affirm it as a matter of course. We were not the only delegation to object to its inclusion, and several delegations abstained. We urge all governments to support more focused, pragmatic technical discussions this week to better disrupt rapidly evolving complex and global crime and criminal justice related threats to our citizens. The United States will not go along with governments that prefer political distraction and divisive ideology over relevant technical discussions on anti-crime actions that will actually contribute to our security. We therefore propose an amendment, again, to remove the words including follow-up to and review and implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We ask that our statement and position on this agenda item be reflected in the official records of this meeting.

I thank you.

Thank you. And I saw the distinguished representative of Argentina is asking for the floor. Floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. The delegation of Argentina echoes what was just said by the United States and also recalls that at the session last year, Argentina also proposed an amendment to remove this reference in item 10 of the provisional agenda. this reference to the 2030 agenda. And we reiterate that for Argentina, the 2030 agenda is made-up of non-binding obligations for states, and each state can exercise its own sovereignty and interpret this agenda. We also would like to thank we also agree with the United States that we should not be politicising such important topics as those before us and so we request support for this amendment and that this be reflected in that Argentina's position be reflected in the records. Thank you.

Thank you. And I see that the distinguished representative of Finland is asking for the floor, floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I am taking the floor on behalf of Finland and all five other EU Member States which are currently members of the CCPCJ Commission. We do not approve of the deletion of the 2030 Agenda from the agenda and the work of the CCPCJ. As members of the Commission, we believe that the Commission should remain committed to working with all partners to accelerate progress towards the SDGs through an encompassing and human rights-based approach to crime prevention and criminal justice. This is a consistent position for my country and the European Union. We stress that efforts to achieve the SDGs and efforts to effectively prevent crime and ensure criminal justice are complementary and mutually reinforcing. We reiterate our strong commitment to the full, effective and accelerated implementation of the 2030 Agenda, guided by its universality, indivisibility and integrated nature of the sustainable development goals.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you very much, Chair. South Africa does not agree with the proposed amendment by Argentina and the United Nations. And the United States, apologies. The SDGs are internationally agreed program of the United Nations. And this body works to eliminate crime and corruption. and promote justice for all. The SDGs cannot be realized unless we have a society globally that does not have the issues that we will be dealing with, crime, corruption, and so on. So we reject the amendment. Thank you.

Thank you. I see no more requests for the floor. The representative of the US and Argentina have made an amendment to the draft agenda contained in item document E/CN.15/2026/Rev.1. And I'd like kindly ask the Secretariat to project the oral amendment on the screen. It's already there, thank you. Yeah, in accordance with Rule 64 of the Rules of Procedure of the Functional Commissions of the Economic and Social Council, the Commission will first take a decision on the amendment. May I take it that the Commission wishes to adopt the oral amendment submitted by the representative of the US and Argentina? We had already two delegations that were against it. That means that there is seemingly no consensus on the amendment. So can we revert to the version Without the amendment. US. I see again the distinguished representatives of the US. You have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We would like to call a vote on our proposed amendment to the title of agenda item 10.

Thank you very much. So a vote has been requested on the oral amendment. The Commission will now commence with the process of voting on the oral amendments to the draft agenda as contained in E/CN.15/2026/1/Rev.1. In accordance with Rule 61 of the Rules of Procedure of the Commission, no representative may interrupt the voting except on the point of order in connection with the actual process of voting. Let me remind the Commission that in accordance with Rule 58 of the Rules of Procedure of the Functional Commissions of ECOSOC, a simple majority of the Commission members present and voting is required. According to the Rules of Procedure, present and voting means members casting an affirmative or negative vote. Members which abstain from the voting are considered as not voting. I now call only the members of the Commission, only the members of the Commission, in favour of the amendment to raise their country signs and keep them raised till their country name is called out.

Argentina, United States.

Thank you. Thank you. I now call only on the members of the Commission not in favour of the amendment. to raise their signs.

Albania, Armenia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Canada, China, Colombia, Cuba, Czechia, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Guatemala, Indonesia, Italy, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, South Africa, Thailand, Tunisia, Uganda, United Kingdom, and Zimbabwe. Thank you.

Thank you. And now we're requesting members of the Commission abstaining to indicate their abstention by raising their country signs.

Japan and El Salvador.

Thank you.

Thank you. So there is a total of two votes in favour of the amendment, 29 votes against and two abstentions. Therefore, I declare the Commission has decided to reject the amendment. Does a Member of the Commission wish to make a statement, an explanation of vote, or any delegation wish to make a general statement? This is not the case. So since the oral amendment submitted by the representative of the US and Argentina has not been adopted, we shall proceed to take a decision on the provisional agenda as contained in E/CN.15/2026/1/Rev.1 as a whole. Can the Commission now adopt the provisional agenda as contained in E/CN.15/2026/1/Rev.1? I see no objections. Thank you. Can I now invite the Commission to adopt the organizational arrangements which have, as already mentioned, been agreed upon through silence procedures. I see no objection. Thank you. Now that we have adopted the agenda and the organizational arrangements, I'd like to remind you that like previous sessions, this session will be conducted fully paperless. Let us then continue with the opening of the session. And now give the floor to His Excellency Ambassador Lok Bahadur Tapa, President of the Economic and Social Council to address the Commission via video message.

Okay.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, It is an honour to address the 35th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. This session convenes at a moment of growing complexity in the global security and justice landscape. Your deliberations are essential to strengthening fair, humane and resilient justice systems. Equally critical are your discussions on transnational organized crimes, corruption, cybercrime and terrorism. These challenges transcend borders, testing the capacity of States and demanding coordinated, innovative and forward-looking responses. I welcome the focus of the draft resolutions on addressing Sex tortions, fraud and trafficking in persons and encourage member states to translate these priorities into concrete, coordinated and effective actions. I commend the Commission's steadfast efforts to enhance international cooperation and to promote effectiveness, integrity and accountability within criminal justice systems. Your work directly contributes to building public trust and safeguarding the rule of law. I also look forward to the 50th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi this September. This will be a pivotal platform for forging consensus, exchanging knowledge, and charting a course to address emerging threats with unity and with resolve. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, the Economic and Social Council has underscored the importance of solutions that are inclusive, that are evidence-based and that are centered on people while remaining responsive to future challenges. Your contributions to the 2026 High-Level Political Forum will ensure that crime prevention and criminal justice remain integral to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. ECOSOC stands ready to support your work through strengthened coordination and partnership. I wish you productive deliberations and look forward to the impactful outcomes of the sessions. I thank you.

I thank the President of the Economic and Social Council for this contribution. And I now have the pleasure to invite Mrs. Monica Katina Juma, the Executive Director of UNODC to address the Commission. Madam Executive Director, allow me first to congratulate you on your recent appointment. The Commission looks forward to working closely with you to collectively address the complex challenges that we face in strengthening crime prevention and criminal justice. You have the floor, Mrs. Juma.

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, good morning to you all. I am honored to address the 35th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. I open this session with a profound sense of duty and responsibility, not because this is my first address to this commission, but also because we meet at an inflection point when the foundations of multilateralism are being tested like never before. That responsibility, as I see it, is anchored on two essential duties. The first is to listen carefully to you, the member states, about your priorities, your concerns, and the realities confronting the citizens you represent and humanity as a whole. Since my arrival, I have had the pleasure of meeting with many of you, And those early conversations have already helped shape my conviction that our work must remain grounded in responsiveness, partnership, and practical impact. And I want to assure you that I will bring my full commitment to this task. The second duty is to help frame our collective focus at a time when the global environment we operate in is growing complex and becoming increasingly volatile. It is precisely in moments like this that this Commission matters most. It reaffirms that dialogue is stronger than division. It reasserts the UNODC's enduring mission to make societies safer, more just and more prosperous. And it reminds us that our collective responsibility is ultimately to the people we serve, as set out in the founding principles of the United Nations Charter. I am also aware that this session convenes at a particularly important time in UNODC's calendar, as it comes in the lead up to the 15th United Nations Crime Congress to be held in Abu Dhabi later this year. In this regard, I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to the United Arab Emirates for its continued commitment and leadership in preparing and hosting this important event following its postponement. In adapting to changing circumstances with agility and resilience, the UAE has set an example for us all. The Congress has the important task of shaping the international agenda on crime prevention and criminal justice for the next five years, and in doing so, to guide future work of this Commission. I therefore urge all Member States to work constructively towards finalising the Abu Dhabi Declaration so that we can establish an ambitious and forward-looking foundation for a successful Congress. Distinguished delegates, The global criminal landscape is rapidly evolving and we must be ready and capable of responding to it effectively. Where organized crime once tended to be more localized, fragmented and slow moving, today it moves across borders seamlessly, instantaneously and anonymously. Criminal networks leverage the very arteries that connect our world. turning the infrastructure of globalization into channels for illicit profit. At the same time, digital technologies have dramatically expanded the reach and impact of organized crime. Criminals now move weapons, drugs, and other illicit commodities through encrypted channels and the dark web. They use online spaces to circulate horrific child sexual abuse material and non-consensual intimate images. and they conduct sophisticated online scams and fraud operations that target thousands of victims around the world, often relying on trafficked labor to generate billions in illicit profits. Meanwhile, traditional criminal markets are converging. The same networks trafficking drugs are also smuggling migrants. moving illicit firearms, exploiting natural resources, laundering illicit finance, and increasingly intersecting with cybercrime and terrorism. No region is unaffected, and these threats intensify justice as these threats intensify Justice systems are increasingly struggling to keep a pace with real consequences for security the rule of law and ordinary people Mr. chair in the face of this evolving landscape the ccpcj remains indispensable it is the only Global platform that brings together all of all UNODC's crime-related thematic areas under one roof. It serves as a town square that connects governments, civil society, prosecutors, experts, and law enforcement authorities, and it helps bridge the gap between international policy and realities on the ground. The resolutions before you this week reflect this session's institutional relevance and the contemporary nature of today's threats. On sextortion, we face a disturbing form of online exploitation that requires stronger prevention, faster detection, and better protection for victims. On trafficking for forced criminality, we are confronting one of the fast growing forms of human trafficking that calls for urgent action. And on fraud, we have a unique opportunity to build on the momentum generated by the Global Fraud Summit early this year to further elevate this global issue within the UNODC core priorities. Beyond the plenary debate, we will also have over 100 side events that will help bring real world experience directly into our discussions. I look forward to engaging with civil society, of whom over 120 NGOs are represented here this week. Civil society brings unique perspectives. that institutions alone cannot fully provide, namely the voices of vulnerable groups and those who too often go unheard. Their contribution reminds us that progress on crime prevention and criminal justice requires a genuine all of society effort, one that is more inclusive and more intentional in whom it represents. Excellencies, Over the past one year, UNODC has worked alongside many member states at the front lines of some of the most urgent threats to peace, security, and prosperity. We have been supporting a global network of 200 national interagency border units across 94 countries, helping them disrupt transnational criminal networks, secure borders, and make communities safer. Last year alone, this unit made nearly 5,000 seizures of illicit product, including of 160 tons of cocaine, 115 tons of synthetic drugs, and more than 100 tons of weapons and explosives. We provided expertise and training on cryptocurrency, tracing, and digital forensics, which facilitated the seizure of over $20 million in digital assets and the arrest of 39 suspects in a single investigation. We also trained experts on investigating human trafficking and migrant smuggling cases, who went on to open over 230 new investigations and provide assistance to hundreds of victims. We supported major cross-border law enforcement operations and helped countries secure new convictions for terrorist financing offences. These are only a few examples, but they offer an important glimpse into the broader scale and complexity of the challenges that we face. They also reinforce the value and importance of long-term investment in capacity building, in training and technical assistance. We therefore count on your continued support and partnership to sustain this work. I would also like to thank all UNOV and UNODC staff and colleagues that continue to deliver under increasingly difficult and uncertain conditions as well as growing financial constraints. Their dedication and hard work make all of this possible and demonstrates the unique added value and expertise that UNODC can offer to the world. Alongside our operational successes, we have also made important normative progress. The signing of the UN Convention against Cybercrime last year was a major milestone, with more than 75 signatures already secured, and I strongly encourage others to sign so that we can maximize the potential of this important new treaty. Likewise, the General Assembly's adoption of the Kyoto Model strategies on reducing re-offending marked an important step towards fairer and more humane prison systems. Together, these tools complement and strengthen the existing international architecture for cooperation on crime prevention and criminal justice. Internally, we are moving forward on UNODC's new corporate strategy to identify priorities, sharpen synergies, and improve efficiencies across our mandates in line with the UN 80 reform process. I recently participated in the chief executive board meeting in Japan, where the Secretary General underscored the urgency of a more agile and delivery focused UN that responds more effectively to the needs of member states and that impact more positively on the lives of ordinary people. That message resonates strongly with the work of this commission because this week is about showing that through cooperation, we can still solve problems, strengthen justice, and improve people's lives. At its heart, this comes down to keeping the UN true to its founding principles of advancing peace and security, protecting human dignity, and creating the conditions for the betterment of humankind. Ladies and gentlemen, the true success of this session will not only be measured by the resolutions that you adopt, as important as these are, but by whether our work, helps make people feel safer, better protected, and less forgotten. If we remain guided by our commitment to these principles and our collective responsibility to those we serve, then this commission can help strengthen confidence in multilateralism and it will matter, and it will mean that multilateralism still delivers. Thank you very much, and I wish you a productive session.

I thank the Executive Director for her remarks. We have concluded the opening and continue now with the agenda item three, which is a general debate. I would like to remind delegations that the commission has agreed on a maximum speaking time of five minutes for chairs of regional groups and maximum three minutes for other speakers including high level speakers. As we must be mindful of time, I urge all delegations to respect the agreed speaking time. I now first invite the chairpersons of the regional groups to take the floor. I call on His Excellency Mohamed Nasser, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Egypt, to address the Commission on behalf of the African Group. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you so much, Chairperson, His Excellency Roder, Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Germany, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. On behalf of the African Group, I wish to express our confidence in the able leadership of the Chair for the 35th session of the CCPCJ with support of other distinguished members of the Bureau. Mr. Chair, the African Group extends its warmest congratulations to Her Excellency Monica Juma on her appointment as Director General of UNOV and Executive Director of UNODC. The African Group takes particular pride in the fact that a prominent African woman succeeds another distinguished African woman, Dr. Ghada Wali, in leading these important institutions. This transition stands as a testament to the growing recognition of African leadership and the vital role of women in global governance and multilateral diplomacy. In this regard, the African Group looks forward to working closely with her Excellency and her team to ensure that African countries benefit more effectively from the extensive expertise of UNODC. Sir Chair, while recognizing the ongoing financial challenges facing UNODC, The African Group underscores the vital importance of ensuring that budgetary constraints do not compromise or sideline the relevant core priorities of developing countries to efficiently prevent and combat crime and strengthen criminal justice systems, but rather reinforce targeted and sustainable technical assistance, including equipment, as well as capacity building programs based on the specific needs of requesting countries and ensuring the transfer of technologies. bearing in mind the increased exploitation of new and emerging technologies by criminal and terrorist organizations and groups. Such shared transitional organized crimes, including trafficking in persons, smuggling of migrants, illicit trafficking of firearms, crimes that affect the environment, and trafficking in cultural property, as well as corruption, illicit drugs, terrorism, and cybercrime, remain serious and evolving challenges to the international community. The African Group believes that the fight against these crimes and addressing the root causes, in particular the socio-economic causes, are common and shared responsibilities which require enhancement of bilateral, regional, sub-regional and international cooperation. The African Group underscores the need to enhance international cooperation to address the increasing links between terrorist activities and transnational organized crime, as well as the use of internet for terrorist purposes. In this regard, the group welcomes Connect Initiative developed by the African group in collaboration with the UNODC Terrorism Prevention Branch. Mr. Chair, the group welcomes the adoption of the UN General Assembly of the United Nations Convention Against Cybercrime and encourages all member states to sign and ratify for the early entry into force. The group further encourages member states to constructively engage in the negotiations regarding the additional protocol and the rules of procedure of the convention on the conference of the convention. The group highlights the necessity to take urgent measures to prevent, prosecute and deter all forms of corruption, to strengthen international cooperation, to effectively prevent and counter money laundering and illicit financial flows, and to enhance measures for the identification, tracing, freezing, seizure, recovery and return of assets. And the group emphasizes that the management, administration and utilization of returned assets is the responsibility of the requesting states. that recovered assets shall be returned without conditionalities and in full respect to the sovereign rights of the states of origin. Sir Chair, the African group celebrates the 11th anniversary of the adoption of the Nelson Mandela Rules and commends the Secretariat for the technical assistance provided in accelerating the practical implementation of the rules, as well as the relevant provisions of other UN standards and norms aiming at enhancing further criminal justice systems. And the group emphasizes that UNODC research work should be based on clear and prior mandates and policy guidance provided by the governing bodies. The group stresses the importance that publication of the UNODC shall be impartial and respect the cultural diversity of member states. Finally, the group further stresses the importance of the support provided by UNODC to deliver on the relevant SDGs and the Agenda 2030. And the figures highlighted and the elements highlighted by Her Excellency Monica Juma in her opening statement confirms that the role of UNDC plays in delivering in this regard. With that, Mr. Chair, the African group assures you of our full support and engagement to secure a successful session of this PCJ building for a very successful crime conference in Abu Dhabi later this year. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you for the statement. And I now call on His Excellency Abdullah Khalid Tawil, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to address the Commission on behalf of the Group of Asia Pacific States. Floor is yours.

Good morning, Your Excellency. In respect of the time, I will read a shortened version of the group statement, and a full version can be found online. Your Excellencies, Ambassador Rodgar **** Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, On behalf of the member of state of the Asia Pacific group, I wish to congratulate you on election as the chair of the 35th session of the CCBCJ and other elected members of the bureau. We are confident that under your leadership, this session will be constructive and achieve a comprehensive outcome. The group extends its warmest welcome to Dr. Monica Juma for the new Executive Director of the UNODC and Director General of the United Nations Office in Vienna and looks forward to her leadership as we continue our joint mission and collaboration in advancing crime prevention worldwide. We highly appreciate the work of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and request the organization to continue assisting member states within its mandate and upon their request, including inter-area and capacity building, technical and material assistance. Mr. Chair, the group underline its commitment toward the implementation of 2021 Q2 declaration on advancing crime prevention, criminal justice, and the rule of law toward the achievement of 2030 agenda of sustainable development. Its implementation is an important step in advancing the declaration main pillars. The group considered the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocol as important instrument to counter this form of the crime and strengthen international cooperation mindful of our common and shared responsibility in combating such a crime. Mr. Chair, the group acknowledged the UN Convention against Corruptions as the core international legal framework to prevent and combat corruption, we commend the progress made in the convention implementation, especially those made through its review mechanism. We encourage further strengthening the cooperation between anti-corruptions law enforcement authorities by, for example, participating in making best use of existing expert network. such as Global Operation Network of Law Enforcement Authority, Globe E, a network of 2050 authorities from 135 countries, as well as Asset Recovery Interagency Network Asia Pacific that facilitate timely and efficient transnational cooperation in combating corruption. the chair the group underscore the value of implementing a victim oriented approach oriented approach to prevent and counter all forms of trafficking in person for the purpose of any form of exploitation the group remains concerned regarding the violation of the right of the smuggling migrants we underscore the need to adopt and implementing effective measures in accordance with domestic law to prevent and combat the smuggling of migrants and protect their lives and human rights, particularly women, unaccompanied children and young people. The group recognized that terrorism remains one of the most serious threats to international peace and security and reaffirmed its strong condemnation of terrorism in all forms. We underscore the need to implement the relevant international legal instruments and UN resolutions as applicable to counter-terrorism with full respect for domestic law. We deplore the rise of hate crime around the world and in this regard underline the importance of respect for religious, racial and cultural diversity. We call upon all states to undertake necessary measures to promote a culture of tolerance and respect based on the principle of international law. Mr. Chair, the group welcome the adoption of the United Nation Convention against cyber crime, strengthening international cooperation for combating certain crimes committed by means of information and communication technology system and for the sharing of evidence in electronic form of the serious crime. and urge state to consider signing and ratifying the convention in order to ensure its early entry into force. The group emphasized that UNODC research work should be based on clear mandate and policy guidance provided by governing body. In this regard, the group stressed that UNODC publication must remain impartial and fully respect the cultural diversity of the member state. The group emphasized the need to take concrete steps to ensure accountability through transparent, responsible reporting, as well as to improve representation of underrepresented countries in the staff of UNODC. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you very much for this statement and also thank the Ambassador for making use of this option of presenting a shortened version of the speech here in the room and presenting the longer version online. So we continue now with His Excellency Alejandro Garofali Acosta, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Uruguay to address the Commission on behalf of the Group of Latin American Countries and the Caribbean. The floor is yours.

Buenos dias.

Good morning, Mr. Chairperson. The group of Latin American countries and Caribbean congratulate Ambassador Rudiger Born, the permanent representative of Germany for his election to chair this 35th session of the commission. And we congratulate the esteemed board members and reiterate our firm commitment to participate actively and constructively. We congratulate Monica Juma for her appointment as Director General of UNOV and Executive Director of UNOCD and express our support for the new management coming in. We thank the Secretariat for its work to organise this session. Mr Chair, GRULAC reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism. the rule of law and respect for human rights. We recognize the key role of the UNOCDD in supporting members to strengthen their crime prevention and criminal justice systems in line with the sustainable development goals. We welcome the preparations for the UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, and we see and value the efforts of the United Arab Emirates to host this important multilateral event. We support a full and balanced implementation of the Kyoto Declaration and urge members to continue working transparently and inclusively to adopt the declaration that will be submitted for approval to the members in Abu Dhabi. GRULAC places great importance on this Congress as an open and participative space for dialogue and exchange of good practices between states, intergovernmental organizations, civil society, academia and the private sector, recognizing that organized crime and other crimes exacerbated by poverty, exclusion and corruption and hamper sustainable development and break down the social fabric of communities and countries. Grulac stresses the need to have comprehensive evidence-based public policies that are informed by different types of vulnerability and by a gender perspective across all dimensions of crime prevention criminal justice. We support equitable access to justice, restorative justice and non-custodial sentencing options, especially for women, young people, adolescents and vulnerable persons. And here, We value the General Assembly's adoption of the model strategies for reducing reoffending and recognize the work of Japan leading the open-ended intergovernmental expert group in this area. GRULAC stresses the need to step up international cooperation on extradition, legal assistance, asset return and recovery, and combating impunity, especially when it comes to combating organized transnational crime, corruption and terrorism. Here we stress the need for effective measures to trace illicit financial flows and to identify and, where needed, hold liable beneficial owners, and also ensure full reparation for victims. We are deeply concerned by the negative impact organised crime groups are having on our societies through crimes such as migrant smuggling, human trafficking, recruiting children and young people. The victims of these crimes require full protection of their human rights, no matter what their migration status, nationality, sex, ethnicity, religion or age. We are also concerned by the impact of illicit trafficking of drugs, firearms and cultural goods, and the smuggling of commercial goods, and also crimes the environment and we urgently need a holistic coordinated approach to respond effectively to these challenges. We reiterate the need for full implementation of the UN Convention on Corruption and the UN Convention on Transnational Organized Crime and bold action against the links between corruption and transnational organized crime. We see the growing threat that these crimes against the environment have for security, governance and sustainable development, and also the need to step up international cooperation to prevent and combat these crimes in line with the UNTOC. In this respect, we recognise the efforts of the Peruvian Chair of the Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Crimes Affecting the Environment and stress the need for continued technical and political discussions to identify concrete responses to this scourge. Grulac stresses the need to have rules of procedure that have been adopted by consensus to enable the work of the Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention on Cybercrime. Here, we recognise the efforts of Brazil, chairing the ad hoc committee tasked with these negotiations to reach consensus. Grulac stresses multilingualism as a key principle of the UN. It guarantees mutual understanding and equitable participation of countries, especially developing countries, and makes the UN more effective, efficient, representative, inclusive, transparent and better connected to the peoples it serves. For Grulac, it's critical that respect for multilingualism not be eroded by measures adopted in response to the liquidity crisis. In this respect, we are concerned by limits and even, in some cases, absence of interpretation in the six official UN languages at official meetings, activities and specialized fora. Mr. Chair, Grulac stresses the importance of equitable geographical and gender representation at UNODC. We are concerned by financial constraints facing UNODC and urge that adaptation measures to these constraints not negatively affect the work of governing bodies, the delivery of mandates, especially when it comes to technical assistance and capacity building for developing countries so that we can provide effective responses to ongoing and emerging challenges in crime prevention and criminal justice. Finally, GRULAC will continue to support the UNAT reform process. This has potential to make the UN system more effective, coherent and transparent. In this context, we must preserve the intergovernmental nature of this process and ensure a due balance across the three pillars of the UN's work. Finally, we are ready to take constructive part in working for a consensus that will create a more effective representative system, preserving the technical capacity of UNODC and the specific nature of the work underway here in Vienna. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement and I call on His Excellency Ambassador Carl Haller Gade, Permanent Representative of the European Union, to address the Commission on behalf of the European Union. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, Madam Executive Director, Ministers, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states, Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, the Republic of Moldova, San Marino and Ukraine align themselves with this statement. I would like to begin by thanking you, Mr Chair, the Bureau and the UNODC Secretariat for your critical work in preparing this session. You have our full support. Allow me also to warmly welcome the new Executive Director of UNODC, Monika Gyuma, to Vienna. The European Union and its Member States are strong supporters and reliable partners of UNODC and will remain so. First, I would like to reiterate that the work of the UNODC remains of crucial importance in the present-day world. Cross-border threats stemming from transnational organised crime impact the health, stability and security of our societies. and international peace and security more broadly. They are becoming even more multifaceted and more pressing. To face those challenges, it is crucial that the UN Charter and international law, including international human rights law, are respected without exceptions. The European Union remains strongly attached to a rules-based international order and to effective multilateralism, with the United Nations at its core. We condemn all violations of international humanitarian law, including conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence, forced displacement, and attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure. And we will continue to insist on justice for victims. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine has increased the risks of trafficking in human beings, illicit arms flows and other forms of transnational organised crime. Mr Chairman, the European Union seeks to strengthen the rule of law, crime prevention and effective criminal justice systems in line with the SDGs and in full compliance with obligations under international human rights law, in particular equal access to justice for all and child friendly justice. We also stress that SDG 5 on gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls must guide crime prevention as women and girls face disproportionate risks. Mainstreaming a gender perspective remains critical. Far from being ideological, those principles are crucial for successful crime prevention and criminal justice policies. Among the most pressing criminal justice issues requiring global solutions are digital threats. We are committed to tackling cybercrime through enhanced international cooperation, including through the newly adopted UN Convention against Cybercrime. Alongside 13 of its member states, the European Union was among the first to sign the Convention and is now moving toward its ratification to support its rapid entry into force. We trust that it will help fight child sexual abuse and exploitation by criminalising conduct related to child sexual abuse material and the grooming of children for sexual abuse purposes, a key common priority at this year's session. Mr Chairman, the fight against trafficking in persons is at the core of our policies and values. For us, it is essential to take a comprehensive and human rights-based, gender-responsive and child-sensitive approach, in line with obligations under international law, including the UNTOC Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children. Let me also recall that crimes that affect the environment remain among the most profitable criminal enterprises. To counter the devastating effects that such crimes have on the environment and human health, the European Union and its Member States have agreed on high common standards through the 2024 Directive on the protection of the environment through criminal law. Finally, we would like to thank the United Arab Emirates for hosting the 15th Crime Congress and hope the conditions will be met for it to take place as planned. We are expecting concrete outcomes on crime prevention and criminal justice, on the responsible use of new technologies and on enhanced cooperation on crimes that affect the environment, aligned with the SDGs and international human rights law. We look forward to a consensual and ambitious declaration and a successful Crime Congress in September. The full version of this statement will be published on our website. I thank you very much.

Thank you for this statement. And this concludes the statements by the representatives of regional groups. Thank you very much. We will now proceed with the high level speakers. I'd like to remind speakers to keep their remarks brief and not to exceed three minutes. And it's my pleasure now to invite Her Excellency Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, to address the Commission. The floor is yours. Thank you.

Distinguished Mr. Chairman, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, crime today no longer hides in dark streets alone. It moves through financial systems. encrypted networks, social media platforms, migration routes, and even through the silence inside families and homes. The world's changed faster than many of our institutions did. Organized crime has become global, digital, adaptive, and increasingly invisible. At the same time, societies are becoming more fragile. especially for young people growing up in an age of anxiety, disinformation, addiction, violence, and isolation. In this new reality, security can no longer be understood only through force, control, or punishment. A society becomes truly secure when people trust institutions, when women are protected not only by law, but by culture, when children are not left alone with violence, drugs, or online exploitation, when young people see a future for themselves stronger than the attraction of crime. This understanding is shaping the reforms taking today place in Uzbekistan under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. We are building a justice system that is not only stronger, but more human. For many years, violence inside the homes was treated in our region as a private issue. Today, Uzbekistan became the first country in Central Asia to criminalize domestic violence. This was not only a legal reform, it was a moral decision by the state. At the same time, we are expanding systems of protection orders, rehabilitation, psychological support and legal assistance for victims. We are also reforming the way crimes against women and children are investigated. These cases increasingly require specially trained investigators, prosecutors and judges, because violence leaves not only physical damage, but long-term social and psychological consequences. Another important shift for us is understanding that prevention begins long before a crime is committed. A teenager addicted to drugs, a child exposed to online exploitation, a young person isolated from education and opportunity. These are not future statistics. These are early warning signs for the future stability of society itself. That is why Uzbekistan is investing heavily in education, digital literacy, youth employment, sports, culture, and mental resilience. More than 10 million young people are now involved in nationwide programs designed not simply to occupy time, but to strengthen belonging, responsibility, and critical thinking. Excellencies, drug trafficking remains one of the most destructive forces in our region. Afghanistan continues to produce enormous narcotics flows, while synthetic drugs and online distribution systems are spreading faster than ever before. This is no longer only a criminal issue. It is a public health emergency, a demographic threat, and a challenge to national resilience. That is why Uzbekistan strongly supports deeper regional and international cooperation through UNODC and other multilateral mechanisms. The Information Center on Transnational Threats established in Tashkent and the recent Samarkand Forum on Countering

Drug Threats reflect our belief

that modern threats require modern coalitions based not only on enforcement, but also on prevention, rehabilitation, technology, and intelligence sharing. At the same time, cybercrime is redefining the meaning of borders altogether. Today, a single cyber attack can destabilize infrastructure, manipulate public trust, steal identities, destroy businesses, or radicalize vulnerable individuals thousands of kilometers away. In response, Uzbekistan recently adopted a new cybersecurity strategy for 2026 to 2030 focused on resilience, digital literacy, institutional modernization, and international cooperation. But we must also acknowledge a deeper issue. Technology itself is morally neutral. Artificial intelligence, digital platforms, and encrypted systems can strengthen societies or destabilize them. The question is whether states and international institutions are evolving quickly enough to govern this new reality responsibly. Distinguished delegates, corruption remains another silent threat that weakens trust from within. In Uzbekistan, we increasingly see anti-corruption not only as punishment after abuse occurs, but is eliminating the conditions that allow abuse to emerge in the first place. Digital governance, transparent procurement systems, real time monitoring and public accountability are becoming some of the most effective anti corruption instruments. Because ultimately, corruption is not only about stolen money, it is stolen trust. And once societies lose trust, they become vulnerable to every other form of instability. Dear colleagues, Uzbekistan was recently elected to this commission. We accept this responsibility with seriousness and humility. We do not claim to have all the answers. The world is changing too quickly for any country to say that confidently. But we do believe one thing very seriously. Security in the 21st century cannot be built only through fear, isolation or reaction. It must be built through resilient institutions, educated societies, international cooperation and human dignity. That is why Uzbekistan is ready to contribute actively to global dialogue and practical cooperation, including through upcoming crime Congress and our candidacy to host the 16th UN Crime Congress in 2031. Excellencies, the future of crime prevention will not only be decided in courtrooms or ministries. It will be decided by whether societies can remain humane while confronting increasingly inhuman threats. And that may become the defining challenge of our time. Thank you.

Thank you very much for the statement. And now it's my pleasure to invite Mrs. Catherine Atkinson, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, Ministry of Justice of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The floor is yours.

Chair, delegates, and distinguished guests, the United Kingdom is pleased to participate in the 35th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. I would first like to congratulate Monica Duma on becoming Executive Director to the Office on Drugs and Crime and Director General to the UN Office in Vienna. We look forward to working closely with her because the new and emerging threats to our citizens make collaborative working more important than ever.

This is particularly true

violence against women and girls. And we are now working with eight countries through our convened international coalition to end violence against women and girls. Last year, the UK government published a landmark strategy for halving violence against women and girls within a decade. including the growing transnational trend of online and digital violence. We recently legislated to ban nudification apps and other forms of non-consensual intimate image abuse. And we are hosting a side event, bringing countries together to discuss emerging challenges on digital violence. And I call upon states to join us for those discussions. Protection orders are a vital tool in many legal systems to safeguard victims of violence and abuse, offering immediate and practical safeguards. But too often, they lose their effectiveness across borders. I am pleased that the Hague Conference on Private International Law recently agreed to the UK's proposal for a working group on the recognition and enforcement of protection orders across borders.

This will take the

first steps to explore a future multilateral instrument to enhance global protections for victims and other vulnerable people, and I welcome states' support for this endeavour. Tackling the growing transnational threats of fraud and organised crime remains a priority for the UK Government. The UK was proudly the main donor of the UNODC's Interpol Global Fraud Summit held here in Vienna earlier this year. And it is critical that we maintain this momentum and that nations deliver on the commitments they have already made. The UK remains committed to supporting the UNODC's global programme on tackling organised crime, including promoting the Organised Crime Strategy Toolkit, which has reached more than 1,800 practitioners and now supports 20 countries worldwide. We have also committed GBP 1.5 million this financial year towards providing technical assistance and implementing initiatives focused on countering organised crime. Finally, the UK strongly condemns the smuggling of migrants. In July last year, the UK introduced the world's first dedicated sanctions regime targeting those involved in people smuggling and trafficking. And we have taken decisive action against migrant smuggling networks, closing gaps in our legislation, which enables us to disrupt networks earlier and prosecute them. We call upon Member States to work with us on these important issues. and the many other issues facing our citizens. Thank you.

Thank you very much for this statement. And it's now my pleasure to invite His Excellency Mr. Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice of the United Arab Emirates, to address the Commission. Excellency, you have the floor.

Good morning, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. It is a great honor and a pleasure to host the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi in September 2026. We remain fully committed to ensuring that this Congress delivers meaningful outcomes and leaves a lasting impact. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to His Excellency Ambassador Bonn, Chair of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, for his leadership in guiding the Vienna-based preparations, as well as all delegations for their constructive engagements in the negotiations of the Abu Dhabi Declaration. In this regard, I encourage all delegations to work towards consensus during the reconvened seventh round of the informal consultations scheduled for early July with a view of adopting the declaration on the opening day of the Congress. The UN Crime Congress continues to represent the world's largest and most diverse platform dedicated to crime prevention and criminal justice. It provides a unique opportunity to strengthen multilateral cooperation and collectively address increasingly complex and evolving global challenges, particularly at a time when the international community is facing difficult geopolitical circumstances that demand unity, cooperation and collective resolve. Contemporary challenges will feature prominently on the agenda of the Congress, including organized fraud crimes, affecting the environment, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. A series of high-level thematic discussions will also address other pressing issues of global importance, including drug trafficking, the treatment and the rehabilitation of the offenders, access to justice, money laundering, and violence against children. As a host country, the United Arab Emirates is committed to an exclusively approach. We are listening closely to governments, civil society, and youth whose engagement through initiatives such as Generation Justice, remains essential. In this context, I welcome the organization of the youth forum ahead of the Congress. Additional engagements initiatives will include fireside discussions with the private sector as well as other dedicated platform for NGOs and the UN crime prevention and a criminal justice program network of institutes. It also welcomed the planning of more than 250 and Killary meetings and over 35 exhibitions affecting the strong global interest in dialogue, partnership and exchange. At the same time, it is important that we ensure effective follow up to the Abu Dhabi Declaration so that our commitments are translated into a tangible and sustainable action. In this regard, I welcome the pledge for justice initiatives and encourage Member States to participate at the highest possible level and to announce concrete commitments during the high-level segment of the Congress. We extend our sincere appreciation to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for its continued support, and we look forward to strengthening our cooperation with all partners in the lead-up to the Congress. We warmly look forward to welcoming you all to Abu Dhabi in September 2026. Thank you.

Thank you very much for this statement and also for the view towards the UN Crime Congress. And now, I have the pleasure to invite Mr. Jean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, to address the commission. Excellency, you have the floor.

Excellencies, distinguished

delegates, it is an honor to address this commission. First of all, I would like to underscore that I am making this statement on behalf of Ottawa, from the non-seeded territory of the Aldonken Nation.

Crime is increasingly interconnected, sophisticated, and technologically enabled, expanding its global reach while increasing victimization and criminal profits. It's therefore critical to reaffirm our commitment to the rule.

Of law as central to justice, accountability, stability, international peace and security, and human rights.

At home, Canada is strengthening the rule.

Of law through a three-pillared approach, stronger criminal laws, increased support for law enforcement and frontline community organizations.

And upstream investments that will help prevent crime in the long term. This includes proposing new laws to address repeat and violent offending, rising hate crimes, gender-based violence, and child sexual exploitation.

New laws to reinforce our borders to combat cross-border crime and illegal drugs and precursors, and new laws to modernize investigative powers to keep pace with evolving crime, including cyber crime. Canada believes equal access to justice is fundamental to the rule of law and essential to effective crime prevention and criminal justice responses. We remain committed to advancing the Equal Access for All resolution adopted during the 32nd Commission session and are proud to co-chair the group of friends on access to justice with Brazil and Spain. I'm also pleased to announce Canada's intent to sign the United Nations Convention against cybercrime. Together, we can maximize its potential as an inclusive human rights aligned instrument to counter cybercrime and protect our citizens. We're also establishing a new financial crimes agency to tackle.

Money laundering, fraud and other financial crimes as part of a broader national anti-fraud strategy.

This focus is especially urgent as transnational organized crime networks exploit digital tools to scam citizens, causing financial.

Harm, fueling violence, undermining trust in the digital economy, and leading to human trafficking and exploitation.

Addressing these threats requires coordinated justice centered action to hold perpetrators accountable and to prevent them from profiting. These themes will be explored at Canada's side event behind the screens unmasking scam centers for better.

Victim Protection and Justice on Thursday.

I warmly invite you to attend and I wish you success in your discussions this week and in preparations for the Congress and express our sincere appreciation to the UNODC and the UAE.

For their important work in preparing it.

Thank you so much.

It's a pleasure to be with you.

Thank you very much. And It's now my pleasure to invite Her Excellency Mrs. Anna Sporer, Minister of Justice of Austria, to address the Commission. Excellency, the floor is yours.

Chair, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, dear delegates and members of civil society. Unfortunately, I cannot address you in person at today's opening of the 35th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. Nonetheless, I would like to cordially welcome you in Vienna and express my sincere gratitude to the Chair as well as to the Secretariat for the preparation and organization of this session. To begin with, today's world is more insecure, more polarized and more unequal than at any moment in a generation. Multilateralism is under pressure, democracy is threatened and trust is fragile. We are confronted with complex crises that affect our societies and peaceful life. In March this year, I had the pleasure to lead the Austrian delegation of the 70th Commission on the Status of Women. Its priority theme, ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls, bears utmost importance for crime prevention and criminal justice too. Technological advancements, most importantly AI, not only promise opportunities but also entail risks. Criminal activities in the digital space, including cybercrimes, fraud and incitement have immensely risen in recent years. Online harassment, deepfakes and cyber flashing particularly affect the safety of women online and in real life. As we look ahead, our collective task is clear. need to transform our justice systems in order to address these key challenges for criminal justice collectively. Austria advocates for a multilateral approach in preventing and combating existing crimes, as well as new and emerging forms of crime. At the same time, we stay committed to a victim-centred approach focusing on human rights, the rule of law and crime prevention, including the prevention of trafficking in persons. In Austria, the federal government adopted a national action plan to combat violence against women and girls, which particularly addresses these issues in line with developments at the EU and international level. Moreover, Austria can already rely on fully funded violence protection centres, transitional housing for women and children and forensic clinics for victims of violence that ensure the collection of evidence for criminal proceedings. As an expression of Austria's longstanding commitment to the work of the United Nations, Austria stands for the election to the Security Council for the period 27-28 this week. If elected, Austria will continue to be a reliable and consistent partner and strongly promote the interests of small states in the Security Council. Furthermore, protecting women from violence and strengthening their role in crime prevention and criminal justice will remain one of our priorities. Thank you for the most valuable support of your country for the Austrian candidature.

Thank you for the statement and it's now my pleasure to invite Mr. Hiroshi Morimoto, Vice Minister of Justice of Japan. Your Excellency, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, I wish to begin by congratulating you on your election as Chair of this Commission. I have every confidence in your leadership and the success of this session. I would also like to extend my sincere congratulations to Ms. Monica Catherine Adjuma on her appointment as Executive Director of UNODC. Mr. Chair, firstly, I would like to present one of our efforts to combat crime. Japan is deeply concerned about the growing scale of fraud perpetrated by organized criminal groups in recent years. These fraudulent acts are becoming increasingly harmful and methods of such scams are rapidly evolving. To tackle this critical issue, Japan jointly with other member states tabled a resolution at this CCPCJ. Japan firmly believes that this resolution will enable member states to strengthen their anti-fraud measures and enhance international cooperation, thereby eradicate organized fraud. Japan hopes this resolution will be adopted through constructive deliberations. Mr. Chair, secondly, I would like to highlight one of our key initiatives to reduce re-offending. In response to the strong interest in reducing re-offending expressed at the Kyoto Congress in 2021, Japan proposed a formulation of the UN United Nations model strategies on reducing reoffending. The new model strategies was adopted by the General Assembly last year with the support of many member states. Building on this momentum, Japan will hold a side event on Tuesday focusing on approaches to reducing reoffending in correctional facilities based on the individual characteristics of each inmate. This side event will provide Member States with useful information to formulate and implement measures to reduce reoffending, drawing on the Kyoto Model strategies. Therefore, I believe that this side event will make a significant contribution to strengthening efforts to reduce reoffending in each Member State. Mr. Chair, thirdly, and Japan stands ready to support member states in addressing these issues through continued technical assistance in collaboration with UNODC and UNAFE. Japan remains firmly committed to continuing its sincere efforts with even greater dedication to advance both measures to combat crime and measures to reduce the offending.

Mr. Chair, in closing.

I wish this session every success and hope our discussions will serve as a bridge between the Kyoto Congress and the next Congress in Abu Dhabi. Thank you very much.

Thank you very much for the statement. And now I invite Mrs. Maria Rosa Lula, National Secretary of Justice of Brazil, to address the Commission and Mrs. Lula will be immediately followed by the General Coordinator against Transnational Crimes, Ambassador Mr. Marcelo Della Nina, who will deliver a group statement on behalf of the Coalition for Multilateral Action against Crimes that affect the Environment. The floor is yours.

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Brazil would like first of all to congratulate Dr. Juma on her recent appointment. Brazil is honored to address this 35th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. In an increasingly complex international security landscape marked by the growing sophistication and transnational reach of organized criminal networks, the Brazilian government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to multilateral cooperation, to the rule of law, and to public security policies grounded in accountability, institutional integrity, and respect for human rights. Within this broader framework, the recent nationwide initiative, Brazil Against Organized Crime, is of particular relevance. The Brazilian government has invested more than $2 billion in this comprehensive national public security strategy, aimed at expanding the state's capacity to dismantle complex criminal organizations. Structured as multidimensional and multilevel policy, the initiative advances intelligence sharing among specialized state agencies and modernized mechanisms related to financial investigations, cybercrime prevention, border security cooperation, and asset recovery measures, while further promoting coordination among federal, state, and local authorities. The strategy is organized around four priority axes. First, it aims to choke criminal financial flows and enhance asset recovery. Second, it prioritizes countering firearms trafficking that sustains organized crime. Third, it promotes more effective homicide investigations to ensure violent crimes do not go unanswered. Fourth, it improves prison governance to prevent criminal coordination within correctional facilities. As such, while firmly grounded in domestic institutional development, Brazil against organized crime was conceived with a strong international vocation. To pursue its objectives, it deepened cooperation with other states in fields such as financial intelligence, asset recovery, border security, and firearm trafficking investigations. In close alignment with Brazil against organized crime, Brazil has furthered the modernization of the national weapons management system, RENARM, under the coordination of the National Secretary of Public Security. Furthermore, Brazil has also recently strengthened its legal framework for countering organized criminal for countering organized crime through the establishment of recent civil asset forfeiture action. As an autonomous and civil legal mechanism, this proceeding enables the forfeiture of assets linked to unlawful activities irrespective of a final criminal conviction. Beyond its domestic impact, This legal framework expressly envisages the use of international legal cooperation mechanisms in cases involving transnational elements, including the identification, restraint and recovery of assets located abroad. By facilitating coordinated action against illicit wealth across jurisdictions, this legal tool represents an important addition to Brazil's efforts to counter organized crime in an increasingly interconnected world. In light of these considerations, Brazil would like to reiterate its steadfast commitment to international cooperation under the framework of the United Nations and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Moreover, the Brazilian government is convinced that the challenges posed by transnational organized crime are best addressed through multilateral and cooperative approaches grounded in dialogue, consensus, and mutual respect among states. Such approaches not only enhance the effectiveness of international action but also reinforce the principles of sovereign equality and respect for legal frameworks that underpin international order. Preserving these principles is essential to ensuring that cooperation remains both effective and legitimate in confronting common threats. Brazil remains fully available and committed to deepening cooperation with fellow member states and to contributing actively to our shared efforts to prevent and counter transnational organized crime. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I have the.

Honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the 21 countries members of the Coalition for Multilateral Action Against Crimes that Affect the Environment. Brazil, Bolivia, Central African Republic, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Gabon.

Gambia, Bissau, Mauritania, Morocco, Nigeria, Panama, Peru, Republic of the Congo.

Saint Thomas and Prince, South Africa, Spain, Suriname and Zambia, supported by 11 civil society organizations from different regions. Launched in Rio de Janeiro on the 4th of November of 2025, the coalition works to promote multilateral action against crimes that affect the environment. and establishment of abiding legal framework under the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime to tackle this challenge. Crimes that affect the environment pose multifaceted challenges to the international community.

Including their significant negative impacts on biodiversity and sustainable development.

They destabilize societies and economies.

Indigenous peoples and local communities. Sustain organized criminal networks engaged in broader illicit activities, deprive governments of revenue and local communities of income.

The growing involvement of.

Organized criminal networks and the interconnection of crimes that affect the environment and other forms of transnational organized crime, including money laundering, Corruption, illicit financial flows, trafficking in firearms and drug trafficking is a matter of particular concern. According to the Financial Action Task Force, these crimes.

Generate up to 281 billion US dollars annually, placing them among the most profitable forms of transnational crime.

While the World Bank estimates the value of the impact of a subset of crimes that affect the environment.

In the trillions of dollars. Mr. Chair, while recognition of the threat posed by crimes that affect the environment has been growing in.

Parts of the world.

Most affected, a comprehensive response from the international community to effectively address the issue is still lacking. Domestic and regional efforts are required, but they are not sufficient to fight such a growing transnational challenge, which depends on effective and reliable international cooperation. The existing gaps in the international legal framework seriously constrain the fight against crimes that affect the environment. Mr. Chair, establishing a binding legal framework under UNTOC to counter crimes that affect the environment is an urgent necessity. It would provide a basis to strengthen international legal and police cooperation to support the international community in fulfilling its share of the responsibility to prevent and combat such crimes. The next UNCTAD Conference of Parties in October will be a decisive moment to begin such a process. Thank you very much.

Thank you for this statement and I have now the pleasure to invite His Excellency Mr. Mohammad Kamran Akhtar Malik, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Pakistan, Excellency the floor is yours.

Thank you, Chair. Distinguished Chair, distinguished Executive Director, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, as this is the first session of the Commission since the assumption of the office by the distinguished Executive Director, Ms. Monica Juma, I would like to welcome her and assure her of Pakistan's full support in the conduct of greatly significant work of the UNODC. Mr. Chair, Today's international crime landscape is far more complex than ever. The socio-economic root causes of crime remain unresolved, as reflected in the widening global inequalities and persistent underdevelopment. At the same time, criminal groups are increasingly exploiting new and emerging technologies to expand the speed, scale and sophistication of their operations. while maximizing and concealing their profits with relative ease. The convergence of these trends with growing global instability, conflicts and terrorism has raised human, social and economic cost of organized crime. According to UNODC research, organized crime has since 2000 claimed as many lives each year as armed conflict. This demands stronger and more effective international action. At a time when the 2030 agenda is under strain, Pakistan reaffirms its full support for achieving the SDGs. We remain convinced that advancing sustainable development and crime prevention are mutually reinforcing. We view the evolving crime trends with serious concern. In face of these daunting challenges, Pakistan remains firmly committed to the implementation of the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, the Convention against Corruption, as well as relevant international counter-terrorism instruments. In pursuance of our domestic priorities and international obligations, we have adopted a number of legal, policy and operational measures against transnational crime. We are particularly investing in prevention, leveraging modern technology to strengthen criminal justice responses, supporting juvenile rehabilitation, and protecting victims' rights, especially of women and girls. Given their transnational nature, we are also committed to strengthening cooperation at the bilateral, regional, and international levels. We appreciate the technical assistance facilitated by the UNODC in this regard. We share concerns over the liquidity crisis affecting the UNODC's work and strongly believe that our collective fight against transnational organized crime and criminal networks must be adequately resourced and grounded in the principle of common and shared responsibility. We further wish to emphasize that respect for cultural diversity is a universally agreed principle endorsed by the UN itself. UNODC should in its research work fully adhere to this principle. Mr. Chair, we are deeply concerned by the continued rise in Islamophobia, racism, and hate crimes based on identity that threaten social harmony and public order. Credible and effective criminal justice responses are therefore essential to prevent and counter these crimes. Mr. Chair, Pakistan looks forward to the 15th Crime Congress taking place in Abu Dhabi and hopes for a constructive outcome. We see the Congress as a timely opportunity to strengthen international cooperation and advance our shared pursuit of peace, justice, and rule of law. I thank you.

Thank you very much for this statement. And it's now my pleasure to invite Mr. Yanyun Wu, Vice Minister of Justice of the People's Republic of China. Excellency, you have the floor.

Chair, first of all, On behalf of Ms. He Rong, Minister of Justice of China and the Chinese delegation, I would like to congratulate you and the other members of the Bureau on your election. And I would like to wish this conference a complete success and I would like to thank the Secretariat for all the inputs for the preparation of this meeting. I would also like to congratulate Madam Juma on the election of the Executive Director of UNODC. Chair, at present, the international situation is complex and ever-changing. Member States and the international community at large look forward to revitalizing the UN, advocating for genuine multilateralism and jointly addressing global challenges. The concept of a community with a shared future for mankind and the four global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping are highly aligned with the purposes and objectives of the UN and have been met with a positive response from the international community. China stands ready to work with the international community through the platform of the CCPCG to advance the implementation of these concepts and initiatives and to contribute Chinese solutions to preventing and combating crime and promoting the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Chinese government has always attached a great importance to the development of the rule of law as well as to crime prevention and criminal justice. Over the past year, we have fully implemented the spirit of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China and its subsequent plenary sessions. Guided by Xi Jinping thought on the rule of law, we have made every effort to advance Chinese style modernization within the framework of the rule of law, focused on building a safe China and the China under the rule of law at a higher level, and effectively safeguarded national security and the interests of the people. And firstly, we have improved criminal legislation. And second, we have strengthened criminal law enforcement. And third, we have dependent criminal justice work. Fourth, we have advanced enforcement of criminal penalties and public legal services. And fifthly, we have actively engaged in international cooperation on criminal matters. Chair, the current global crime situation remains severe. China recommends their efforts of CCPCG and the UNODC on their efforts and we'll continue to support them as always. China calls on all countries to work together within the CCPCG platform to address various crime related issues. Hereby, China pursues the following. First, we should further build consensus and strengthen our responsibility and commitment to preventing and combating transnational crime. Second, we should enhance practical cooperation and weave a tight and robust international network to combat transnational crime and corruption. Third, We will strengthen global coordination to effectively address various emerging crimes. Chair, at present, the once in a century transformation is accelerating, and the world has reached a new crossroads. Faced with an international environment marked by both change and turmoil, China will uphold the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, resolutely uphold the international system with the UN at its core, steadfastly defend multilateralism, and actively expand and deepen cooperation with UNODC, countries and relevant international organizations in the fields of crime prevention and criminal justice. We will empower global governance with China's good governance and make greater contributions to the development of the rule of law worldwide. Thank you.

And I have now the pleasure to invite Mrs. Judith Naya Rameta Parano, Principal Secretary of Justice, Human Rights and Constitutional Affairs of Kenya. Your Excellency, you have the floor.

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Kenya is honored to participate in the 35th session of the Commission of on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. Mr. Chair, Kenya congratulates you on your election as chair of the 35th session of the CPJ and assure you of its full support. Kenya further congratulates our gracious lady, Ambassador Monica Juma, the executive director of UNODC and UNODC as a whole. We look forward to close cooperation in matters justice, the rule of law, and effective multilateral responses to crime. Kenya aligns itself with the statement delivered by the African group and wishes to make the following remarks in its national capacity. Kenya recognizes the pivotal role of the CCPCJ in addressing transnational crime, promoting the rule of law, and advancing efforts to achieve the SDGs. We firmly believe that a collaborative and comprehensive approach is essential to effectively combat contemporary challenges of transnational organized crime, cybercrime, corruption and terrorism. To align with their priorities ahead of the 15th UN Congress, Kenya has taken deliberate steps to align its national reforms with the priorities under consideration. Through strengthened institutional coordination of the National Council on Administrative Justice, Kenya has advanced people-centered and victim focus Justice approaches enhanced access to Justice reforms promoted alternative Justice mechanism and strengthen protection for vulnerable groups these efforts demonstrates Kenya's commitment translating Global policy guidance into practical action National action Mr. chair Kenya remains firmly committed to the effective implementation of the international legal instruments addressing transnational organized crime, corruption, terrorism and related offenses. At the national level, Kenya has enacted and operationalized comprehensive legislation targeting organized crime, money laundering, terrorism, financing, trafficking in person, wildlife crime and corruption. Kenya continues to find financing Kenya continues to strengthen interagency coordination among law enforcement, prosecution, financial intelligence and judicial institutions, and actively engages in international cooperation mechanism, including mutual legal assistance and extradition to address complex cross-border crimes. In cognizing the growth that growing threat posed by cyber crime and emerging technologies, Kenya has taken steps to strengthen its legal and institutional framework for addressing cyber-enabled crimes. This includes enactment of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act of 2018, as well as the National Computer and Cyber Crimes Coordination Committee to oversee efforts to mitigate cyber threats, enhance forensic capabilities, and ensure cybercrime investigations align with international best practices. These measures are complemented by capacity building initiatives and international cooperation while ensuring the protection of human rights, fundamental freedoms and the right to privacy. Mr. Chair, Kenya underscores the importance of the application of United Nations standards and norms in crime prevention and criminal justice as a foundation for fair, effective and humane justice systems. In this regard, Kenya adopted sentencing policy guidelines to promote consistency, proportionality and transparency in sentencing. Ongoing prison and correctional reforms incorporate international standards on human treatment, rehabilitation and use of non-custodial measures, with particular attention to women, children and other vulnerable groups. Kenya has further strengthened victim-sensitive and gender-responsive justice. through the implementation of the Victim Protection Act and the development of supporting regulatory and institutional frameworks. Mr. Chair, in response to the evolving global crime trends, Kenya has enhanced national data collection, analysis and information sharing mechanism across criminal justice institution to support evidence-based policy making. Kenya continues to collaborate with the UNODC and regional partners to strengthen crime statistics trend analysis and early warning systems and supports the collection and use of disaggregated data to inform targeted and effective responses. Kenya emphasizes that addressing current and emerging crime challenges require sustained international cooperation, particularly in capacity building, technical assistance, and the sharing of experience and technology. We remain committed to working closely with UNODC and all member states to promote coordinated, inclusive, and forward-looking responses. Mr. Chair, as we deliberate on the agenda items before us, Kenya encourages an inclusive and transparent dialogue that considers the perspectives of member states in this regard I'm pleased to inform that on the margins of the 35th CCP CJ session Kenya will be hosting with support from unodc a side event entitled People Center Justice for Improved Access, Service Delivery and Observance of Human Rights in Kenya on Wednesday, 3 June at 3 p.m. We invite all delegates to participate. In conclusion, Kenya looks forward to contributing constructively to the discussions and supporting initiatives that promote international cooperation, capacity building and the protection of human rights within the framework of crime prevention and criminal justice. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement and I have now the pleasure to invite Her Excellency Mrs. Delphine Anne Horner Ambassador and Permanent Representative of France to address the Commission. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chairperson. Distinguished Chairperson, distinguished Executive Director, Excellencies, dear colleagues, the times we find ourselves make it imperative to make urgent collective progress in crime prevention, countering crime and criminal justice. We note the dangers that organized crime groups pose for the stability of our states. This is why, during France's Presidency of the G7 this year, we have made combating organised crime, and especially drug trafficking, one of our priorities. We all know how organised crime feeds off economic, social, technological and environmental imbalances. We all know how criminals unscrupulously exploit human fragility, as we will be discussing during this session this week in trafficking in persons, sextortion of children and fraud. Chairperson, this 35th session of the Commission on crime prevention and criminal justice provides an opportunity to respond to these challenges and lay the groundwork for the coming years as we approach the Crime Congress. We look forward to discussing our great principles of dialogue and action. For France, our crime prevention, law enforcement, judicial and victim protection and support responses are all interlinked and are meant to be complementary, coherent and effective. We are aware of the transnational nature of the threat and challenges that we face. That is why we are so actively involved in discussions within the UN, where we defend human rights, the rule of law and sustainable development, not as hollow words, but as prerequisites for effective crime prevention and criminal justice policies. Effectiveness and outcomes are what is important to us, and we judge texts on their merits. You may count on our constructive and active participation in the negotiations on the resolutions so as to come to consensus on these crucial topics and to come up with better methods of implementing them and evaluating the results. at a time when the office is facing unprecedented budgetary difficulties. I would like once again to express words of welcome to our new executive director, Madam Monica Juma, who's attending today the first meeting of her first meeting of one of the governing bodies. We have every confidence in our new executive director as a solid interlocutor who will be able to strike the right collective direction in a spirit of effectiveness, we reiterate our confidence in her. You may count on France's active participation in this session of the CCPCJ Chairperson. Thank you.

Thank you for this statement. And it's now my pleasure to invite Mr. Mustafa Al-Qassem, Vice Minister of Justice of the Syrian Republic. Excellency, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. My delegation would like to extend its congratulations to Ms. Monica Juma on her appointment as Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and Director General of the United Nations Office at Vienna. We are confident in your success and you may count on our support. My delegation would also like to congratulate the Chair of the session on his election and wishes him success in leading our work. Our thanks also go to the Secretariat for its preparation of this session. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Asia Pacific Group as well as with the statement to be delivered on behalf of a group of states regarding Islamophobia. We would like to add the following in our national capacity. Ladies and gentlemen, during the rule of the Assad regime, the Syrian Arab Republic witnessed a profound collapse in the justice system and the rule of law. The regime committed grave human rights violations and widespread crimes, including torture, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detention, and enforced disappearance. The regime systematically employed violence against civilians, deliberately weakened the judicial structure, and engaged in transnational organized crime, leading to a breakdown of public trust in institutions and creating an environment marked by impunity, fear, and social division. Today, Syria is witnessing a new phase in which the state is rebuilding the legitimacy of its institutions and consolidating the principles of justice, accountability and the rule of law. This transformation has been clearly reflected in the judicial and security reality, marked by reduced insecurity and violations and a strengthened role of the judiciary and law enforcement agencies within an institutional and legal framework aimed at protecting rights and public freedoms. The Syrian government continues its efforts in the field of criminal justice and transitional justice. by reforming the judicial structure, strengthening the independence of the judiciary, abolishing exceptional courts, and emphasizing transparency and openness, working to uncover the truth and prosecuting perpetrators of crimes and violations, ensuring redress for victims, and achieving national unity, civil peace, and social reconciliation. In this context, Syria affirms that the success of efforts to combat crime and consolidate security and stability requires serious and responsible international cooperation, particularly in the exchange of information, expertise and equipment, and strengthened cooperation with the Interpol in pursuing wanted persons and those involved in transnational crimes, and in supporting the mechanisms for the recovery of assets and funds looted from the country during past decades. There can be no shortcuts when it comes to building justice. It is a collective national and international responsibility which requires a sincere commitment aimed at a future based on the right to a dignified life, the rule of law and mutual international cooperation. In closing, the delegation of the Syrian Arab Republic reaffirms its full support to you, Mr. Chair, for a successful session of this Commission. Thank you.

Thank you very much for this statement. I have now the pleasure to invite Mr. Jan Austad, Policy Director of the Norwegian Ministry of Justice and Public Security. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you. Chair, dear colleagues. The Crime Commission must fulfill its role in enhancing criminal justice systems, providing access to justice and promoting safe and secure societies in a manner that is gender responsive, age sensitive and in full compliance with international law and international human rights obligations. This is vital to fulfill our obligations under the Sustainable Development Goal 16. The PCJ must adapt and respond to all emerging forms of crime. Norway would like to highlight the issue of organised environmental crime. Large-scale organised environmental crime undermines our efforts towards sustainable development as illegal operations by companies deplete public resources, deprive states of tax revenues and foster corruption. Norway welcomes robust cross-border collaboration among law enforcement agencies and enhanced international cooperation in developing strengthened legal framework. We take note of the discussions since the last CCPCJ that took place in the open-ended intergovernmental expert group on crimes that affect the environment. We welcome a continued dialogue on the possible development of any additional protocol to the Organized Crime Convention aimed at preventing and combating crimes that affect the environment. The review mechanism for the implementation of the Convention against Transnational Organized Crime was created in order to improve our responses to organized crime. We see now that the mechanism is moving very slowly forward and not producing expected results. Norway is among the many countries struggling to fulfill our obligations in this process. On this occasion, we wish to pay tribute to the strong efforts made from the UNODC Secretariat to support countries. Despite their obvious lack of resources, we experience a positive and innovative approach from the Secretariat that is highly motivating for the national experts tasked with conducting the review. We encourage State Parties to give priority to the tasks we have all agreed to undertake, in order to make the review mechanism an efficient instrument for increased efforts against organised crime. Many of our countries now experience instability with rising conflict, displacement and mounting pressure on communities and organisations trying to hold the line against organised crime. This is now a serious threat in several parts of the world, as organised crime actively adapts to and exploits instability, making the work of civil society more critical and more difficult than ever. Organised crime thrives when restrictive laws make it harder for civil society, for journalists, activists, civil society organisations to operate securely and freely. Our goal in such times must be to ensure that civil society is recognized and treated as essential partners in the global response to organized crime. Local actors know their communities and what works and are often the first to respond. We urge all countries to build resilience against organized crime by empowering all relevant civil society stakeholders. And of course, Norway takes this opportunity to warmly welcome Monica Juma, Executive Director of UNODC to Vienna. We look forward to working with you closely as a strong and reliable partner. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement and it's now my pleasure to invite Her Excellency Mrs. Eklandtina Gjermeni, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Albania to address the Commission. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, Ambassador Bonn. I congratulate you and the Secretariat for the excellent organization of this session. I also warmly felicitate UNODC Executive Director, Monica Juma, on her appointment and assure her for Albania's firm partnership. We highly appreciate the valuable work and strong mandate of UNODC in support of our countries in addressing evolving criminal threats and strengthening justice systems. As a member of CCPCJ, Albania reaffirms its commitment to actively contributing to its work and to advancing the 2030 agenda through peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. Through establishment of specialized prosecution offices and courts to investigate and adjudicate cases of organized crime and corruption, Albania has laid the foundations for a stronger and more credible justice system. These reforms reflect our commitment to strengthening the rule of law and the building public trust, essential elements of SDG 16. With the national strategy against organized crime 2023, 2023-2030, Albania has adopted a comprehensive evidence-based framework informed by threat assessments and data analysis. Albania has undertaken legislative and institutional reforms to strengthen international judicial cooperation on transnational organized crime, corruption, terrorism, asset recovery, extradition, and cross-border and regional cooperation. Likewise, my country's full compliance with Financial Action Task Force recommendations, leading to Albania's removal from its grey list, demonstrates our dedication to integrity and transparency. The recently adopted National Action Plan on Youth and Crime Prevention places particular emphasis on inclusive prevention through education, digital literacy, and community engagement. These efforts aim to address root causes and help build safer and more just communities. In addition, Albania has adopted the intersectoral strategy on crime victims' rights for 2024-2030. Progress has also been made in improving and safeguarding the rights and treatment of detainees guided by the Nelson Mandela Rules. Albania has established a comprehensive state-guarded legal aid framework aimed at ensuring equal and effective access to justice, especially for vulnerable and marginalized groups. As Albania advances on its path toward EU accession, we remain committed to full alignment with international standards in the rule of law, including the implementation of UNTOC and UNCAC and the objectives of 2030 Agenda. Our priorities remain strengthening the criminal justice system, ensuring equal access to justice and due process rights, and integrating gender perspective and human rights throughout our policies and institutions. Mr. Chair, emerging crime trends further highlight the importance of crafting collective and coordinated responses. We therefore look forward to a meaningful exchange of ideas and strengthened cooperation among member states, intergovernmental organizations, and civil society. In closing, we thank the United Arab Emirates for hosting the 15th UN Crime Congress and look forward to a successful Congress in September. I thank you.

Thank you for the statement and I now invite Mr. Abdullah Yusuf Al-Mal, Legal Advisor to the Ministry of the Interior of Qatar to address the Commission. Excellency, You have the floor.

In the name of God, the compassionate, the merciful. Your Excellency, Monica Juma, Executive Director of UNODC. Your Excellency, Rudiger Bohn, Chair of the 35th Session of the CCPCJ, I would like to congratulate you on your election as Chair of the current session. We are confident that your wisdom and diplomatic acumen will lead us to fruitful results. I congratulate the other members of the Bureau and thank UNODC for organizing the session and preparing the relevant documents. I would also like to congratulate the Executive Director of UNODC, Her Excellency Monica Zuma, on assuming her position. My delegation is committed to fully cooperating with you in carrying out UNODC's mission in countering organized crime, corruption and terrorism and contributing to a safer and more just world. I would be remiss not to commend the wise leadership of the former Executive Director, Ms. Ghada Wali, over the past five years. Transnational organized crime tends to grow in a polarized global geopolitical landscape, rife with conflicts. This shows the close nexus between transnational organized crime and conflicts, with one fueling the other in a vicious cycle that undermines state institutions, authority and effectiveness, and represents a major threat to regional and international security. Experience shows that multilateral cooperation is the mainstay for our efforts to maintain international peace and security, find peaceful solutions to conflicts, and confront the multifaceted threats of organized crime. Moreover, multilateralism is the sure path towards achieving sustainable socio-economic and political development for all. Qatar is proud of its record in supporting multilateralism, and the peaceful settlement of conflicts and fulfilling its obligations under international conventions including the UN convention against transnational organized crime as part of our efforts Qatar hosted recently the 11th conference of the states parties to the UN convention against corruption in Doha from 14 to 18 December 2025 with more than 2,500 participants from 170 states parties attending the conference, in addition to a large number of intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations. The conference adopted the Doha Declaration, which stressed the essential role of effective international cooperation and technical assistance, including capacity building, in preventing and combating corruption and associated offenses. The Doha Declaration urged states to strengthen cooperation at the international, regional, sub-regional and bilateral levels, and to continue providing effective technical assistance with a special focus on supporting developing countries in cooperation with UNODC. The 11th Conference also adopted ten important resolutions covering the various aspects of cooperation in implementing the convention Qatar is also proud of its role in negotiating the UN convention against cyber crime we were among the first countries to have signed and ratified the convention. We call on other countries to quickly ratify the convention to ensure its entry into force, especially that the Secretary General has described this convention as a powerful legally binding instrument to strengthen our collective defenses against cybercrime. It is a testament to the continued power of multilateralism to deliver solutions joint and multilateral solutions and it is a vow that no country, no matter their level of development, will be left defenseless against cybercrime. We commend the United Arab Emirates for their efforts in preparing for the 15th UN Crime Congress. which will be held in September of this year. We hope that the Abu Dhabi Declaration emanating from the Congress will be an enabling declaration that would bolster the international community's efforts to accelerate action in the area of crime prevention, criminal justice, and the rule of law. Finally, we call on all countries to increase their political and financial investment into crime prevention and criminal justice and adopt more comprehensive strategies that address the socioeconomic root causes of crime and invest in young people as a demographic force with leadership potential for a better future. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. And it's now my pleasure to invite His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Nasser, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Egypt. I think it's -- Sorry. I have the pleasure to invite His Excellency Mr. Sung Wook Ham, Ambassador -- no.

Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan. Oh, yes. Sorry for the confusion here. the pleasure to invite Mr. Ashkat Shumagali, Deputy Prosecutor General of Kazakhstan, to have the floor.

Thank you very much. Distinguished Chair, Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, first of all, allow me to congratulate you, Mr. Bonn, and the members of the Bureau on your election. In the context of global turbulence, strengthening international cooperation becomes a decisive factor for sustainable development. Kazakhstan remains committed to building a secure global community and implementing the United Nations 2030 agenda. We are parties to the conventions against transnational organized crime and against corruption. We have ratified all 19 universal UN counter-terrorism instruments and are currently undergoing procedures to ratify the conventions against cybercrime. Ensuring The safety of citizens and protecting their rights is our absolute priority. A new constitution was adopted through a national referendum in March of this year. It is not merely a legal milestone, but a catalyst for Kazakhstan's shift towards a transformative new stage of development, building a just, strong and progressive state. The constitution translates into reality such domestic policy principles as citizen-centered government, responsible citizenship, and nationwide environmental culture. The basic law asserts human life and freedom as the highest value, elevating the protection of citizens' rights to an absolute priority based on the unvarying principle of law and order. An interagency commission on crime prevention chaired by the Prime Minister has been established to ensure comprehensive alignment and coordination of the public safety system. Our commitment to human rights protection is also reflected in digital transformation. We have enshrined digital rights and personal data protection in the constitution, creating a reliable foundation for a secure digital state. We have launched innovative developments, the targeted center for precursor control and the center for forecasting criminal stress and public safety risk. The anti-fraud center operating as a unified technological platform blocks suspicious transactions. Mr. Chair, Kazakhstan highly values the role of the Commission and the UNODC in consolidating global efforts. Kazakhstan supports the resolution of the current session and remains a reliable supporter of global peace and progress. Distinguished participants, guided precisely by this approach and commitment to a timely response to emerging challenges, Kazakhstan, jointly with Belarus, proposes a draft resolution dedicated to combating trafficking in persons for the purpose of forced criminality. The core idea of the resolution is simple. It is a practical and balanced document focused on prevention, victim protection and holding perpetrators accountable. The draft draws on the existing UN frameworks, the Convention against Transnational Organised Crime and its protocols. The resolution does not create new legal obligations, but is designed to help states implement existing ones more effectively. We look forward to your support for this draft resolution. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you, and Mr Shumagali, sorry once again for the confusion at your speech. There was a misunderstanding on our side with the updated list and have now the pleasure to invite Mrs. Jo P. Tang, Charg d'affaires of the Permanent Mission of Singapore. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. First of all, congratulations, Ambassador Bourne, on your appointment as Chair of the 35th CCPCJ. My delegation also wants to congratulate Mrs. Monica Juma, the Executive Director, on your recent appointment. We're very happy to see you here today. Chair, This week, the Commission convenes to discuss, amongst other matters, the pressing challenges posed by transnational organised crime, which in recent years have been amplified by the proliferation of technology and artificial intelligence. As the use of AI becomes increasingly widespread, criminal actors are exploiting these technologies to conduct more sophisticated and convincing scams. Scam syndicates are leveraging AI-enabled tools to recruit and traffic victims to scam centers, further enabling these criminal operations to expand across borders. According to the Global Anti-Scam Alliance, scammers globally have stolen over $442 billion in 2025. In Singapore, our efforts to combat scams have seen encouraging results. Last year, scam cases dropped by 27%, to about thirty seven zero cases while the scam numbers have decreased. We have observed that AI and deepfakes are increasingly being used to perpetrate scams, notably in the impersonation of senior government officials. This reflects a broader trend where scam cases are becoming increasingly sophisticated, technology-enabled, and harder to detect and disrupt. Addressing these complex challenges requires effective legislation, competent law enforcement responses, and strong international cooperation. In 2023, Singapore enacted the Online Criminal Harms Act to strengthen our ability to address online criminal activities and mitigate harms in the digital space. To further protect potential targets of ongoing scams, we passed the Protection from Scams Act last year. The act empowers the police to issue restriction orders to banks to restrict the banking and credit facilities of potential scam victims to prevent further financial harm. This March, Singapore worked closely with several cryptocurrency exchanges such as Coinbase and Upbit to successfully prevent more than $2 million in potential financial losses across various types of scams. In addition, our government continues to work closely with major industry stakeholders such as Apple and Google to proactively detect and prevent government impersonation scam messages disseminated through these online platforms. Tomorrow, Singapore will be giving a presentation on our regional anti scam efforts and initiatives at a side event organised by the UNODC, and I invite everyone who is interested to attend. Chair. Singapore remains committed to working closely with the UNODC and the international community to strengthen our collective efforts against transnational organized crime and corruption. I thank you.

Thank you for this statement and it's now my pleasure to invite Her Excellency Mrs. Matilda Aku Alomatu Osei-Agyeman, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Ghana to address the Commission. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Mr. Chair, congratulations on your work so far in steering our affairs. I also join other delegations in congratulating Ambassador Monica Juma as she take up your new role of Executive Director of the UNODC. My delegation wishes to express appreciation to the UNODC for their continued efforts in supporting member states in addressing evolving crime prevention and criminal justice challenges, particularly through technical assistance, policy support, and international cooperation, which we are convinced that the new executive director will help enhance. Chair, today's global security environment is increasingly shaped by interconnected and rapidly evolving threats. Transnational organized crime, corruption, trafficking in persons, smuggling of migrants, terrorism, and illicit financial flows, as well as cyber-enabled criminality continue to undermine peace, security, and governance, and sustainable development across all regions. These challenges are no longer confined within borders. criminal networks have become more sophisticated, adaptive, and technologically enabled. They exploit globalization, digital platforms, weak institutional capacities, and gaps in international cooperation to expand their activities across jurisdictions. For countries such as Ghana, these threats have real implications for economic development, public trust in institutions, and the safety and well-being of our citizens. They place increasing pressure on national criminal justice systems, law enforcement agencies, and regulatory institutions, particularly in developing countries where resources and technical capacities remain limited. Chair, Ghana believes strongly that effective responses to crime must go beyond enforcement measures alone. Sustainable crime prevention requires investment in strong institutions. good governance, education, social protection, youth empowerment, and economic opportunities. Addressing the root causes of crime and vulnerability remains essential to building peaceful, resilient, and inclusive societies. In this regard, Mr. Chair, Ghana welcomes continued international efforts to strengthen multilateral cooperation in crime prevention and criminal justice. We particularly underscore the importance of capacity building and technical assistance for developing countries, especially in areas such as broad, such as border management, digital investigations, financial intelligence, forensic analysis, and judicial cooperation. We also recognize the growing impact of technology on crime trends globally. While digital innovation has created enormous opportunities for development and inclusion, It has also expanded the scope and sophistication of criminal activity. This requires stronger international collaboration, timely information sharing, and modern legal and institutional frameworks capable of responding effectively to emerging threats. At the national level, Ghana remains committed to strengthening its legal and institutional frameworks in line with international obligations and best practices. We continue to pursue reforms aimed at enhancing accountability, improving coordination among law enforcement and justice sector institutions, and strengthening public confidence in the rule of law. Mr. Chair, in conclusion, Ghana also believes that our collective responses must continue to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms. Efforts to combat crime and strengthen security should always be balanced with the protection of human dignity, privacy, justice, and the rule of law. The challenges before us are shared challenges. And they require shared solutions. Through strengthened cooperation, solidarity, and collective action, we can build safer, more secure, and more resilient societies for our people. I thank you, Mister Chair.

Thank you and it's now my pleasure to invite her excellency Mrs Deborah Lepre, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Italy to address the Commission. Excellency, you have the floor.

Thank you Ambassador, Mr. Chair and congratulations for your election and for your key work together with the Bureau and the Secretariat. Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, Italy fully aligns itself with the statement delivered

by the European Union and I would like to add a few remarks

in my national capacity. Allow me first to warmly welcome once again Ms Monica Juma as the Executive Director of UNODC and DG of UNOV. Italy welcomes her commitment to strengthening the effectiveness and operational relevance of the Office. At a time of growing pressure on the multilateral system, we believe that the UNAT process should strengthen and will strengthen the impact and coherence role of UNODC, ensuring it remains fit for purpose in delivering concrete results for member states. Italy has consistently supported international cooperation in criminal justice matters, from Antok to Anancak to today's global force against transnational organized crime. The commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Palermo Convention reaffirmed the relevance of the vision of Judges Falcone and Borsellino. Transnational crime can only be addressed through strong international cooperation. Mr. Chair, criminal activities, particularly cyber-enabled ones, are increasingly interconnected and mutually reinforcing. As highlighted in a recent UNODC research brief, transnational organized crime today causes roughly as many deaths globally as armed conflicts. Addressing these challenges requires integrated responses combining judicial cooperation, law enforcement coordination, financial investigation and technological expertise. We welcome the outcomes of the Global Fraud Summit jointly organised by Eurojust and Interpol, together with recent cross-border operations. These deliverables demonstrate the value of coordinated international action. In one major investigation targeting a transnational fraud network involving more than ten countries, Italian authorities contributed to the freezing of assets worth over 500 million euros linked to a criminal scheme exceeding 1.3 billion euros. Italy also welcomed the growing international attention devoted to asset tracing and recovery, including through innovative tools such as Interpol's Silver notice. We are particularly proud that the first ever silver notice originated from investigations conducted in Palermo. International cooperation remains essential also against illicit trafficking of cultural property. Through the Carabinieri Command for the Protection of Cultural Heritage, Italy recovered more than 8,000 cultural assets in 2024 alone. Mr. Chair, the draft resolution under discussion this week demonstrates our shared determination to adapt criminal justice responses to evolving forms of crime, including online fraud, trafficking in persons, and crime affecting children. Looking ahead to the Crime Congress in Abu Dhabi, Italy supports an ambitious and forward-looking declaration capable of strengthening international cooperation and reinforcing the rule of law. our common objective remains clear, ensuring that multilateral cooperation continues to evolve and respond effectively to global criminal threats in an increasingly interconnected world. And yes, yes, Ms. Edith Juma, let's work, let's continue to work together towards a safer, more just and prosperous society for all. Thank you.

Thank you. And I have now the pleasure to invite Mr. Yotsada Tassarika, Advisor, Office of the Permanent Secretary and Acting Director General, Office of Justice Affairs of the Ministry of Justice of Thailand to address the Commission. Sir, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. May I begin by congratulating Your Excellency, Mr. Richard Bonn, for your election as Chair of the CCPCJ, and also to Madam Monica Juma for your recent appointment as Executive Director of UNODC and Director General of United Nations Office at Vienna. I'd also like to thank the Secretariat for once again the excellent work in preparation for this session. Thailand aligns itself with the spirit of multilateralism that underpins the work of this Commission and reaffirms our unwavering commitments to strengthening international cooperation in crime prevention, criminal justice and the rule of law. As an active member of the CCPCJ, Thailand prioritizes to work within the scope of the Commission's in the following three areas. First, Thailand wishes to emphasize the importance of implementing the United Nations standards and norms in crime prevention and criminal justice, particularly the United Nations rules for the treatment of women prisoners and non-custodial measures for women offenders, widely known as the Bangkok Rules. As a CCPCJ member state that initiated and championed the adoption of the Bangkok Rules, Thailand remains committed to advancing gender-responsive criminal justice systems. We believe that women in relation to the justice system often face unique vulnerabilities, including histories of violence and socioeconomic disadvantages. Effective implementation of the Bangkok Rules therefore requires a holistic and human-centered approach, including access to healthcare, rehabilitation, mental health support, vocational training, and appropriate non-custodial measures. We hereby encourage all members to further integrate gender-sensitive approaches into their criminal justice institutions in line with international standards. Second, Thailand is deeply concerned by the rapid rise of online scam and cyber-enabled fraud, which have evolved into serious transnational organized crimes affecting societies, economies, and human security worldwide. Criminal networks increasingly exploit digital platforms, emerging technologies, and cross-border operational structures to target victims on an unprecedented scale. Thailand recognizes that no state can address these threats alone. We therefore underscore the significance of strengthened international cooperation, timely information sharing, mutual legal assistance, financial investigations, asset recovery, and coordinated law enforcement responses. Enhancing digital literacy and public awareness to prevent victimization, particularly among vulnerable populations, is equally crucial. We appreciate the Member States that joined the adoption of the Bangkok Joint Statement by the Global Partnership Against Online Scams, which was the outcome document of the International Conference on the Global Partnership Against Online Scams on December 25 in Bangkok. Regarding the prevention and suppression of online scams and cyber-enabled fraud in the international scheme, Thailand participated the signing of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime in Hanoi, Vietnam last year and is currently undertaking the necessary domestic procedures to become a party to the Convention at the earliest opportunity. Mr. Chair, lastly, Thailand further wishes to highlight the importance of early prosecutorial involvement in complex criminal cases. particularly those involving transnational organized crimes, cybercrime corruption, financial crimes, and trafficking related offenses. In increasingly sophisticated and technology driven criminal environments, integrated collaboration between investigators and prosecutors from the earliest stage of a case is essential. Hence, Thailand has continued to strengthen multidisciplinary approaches and institutional coordination among prosecutors, law enforcement authorities, financial intelligence units, and digital forensic experts. We believe that building capacity and promoting practical cooperation among criminal justice actors are critical to ensuring accountability and the effective administration of justice. Mr. Chair, Thailand remains firmly committed to constructive engagement within this Commission and to advancing practical, inclusive, and forward-looking solutions to emerging crime challenges. As we are submitting the candidature for the next term of CCPCJ membership for 2028 to 2030, we stand ready to work with all member states and partners to strengthen criminal justice systems that are effective, humane, resilient and responsive to the needs of our people. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. I now invite Mr. Dmitry Lubinsky, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, to address the Commission, Excellency. You have the floor.

Mr. Chairperson. At the outset, let me congratulate you and the other members of the board on your election, and we hope that under your leadership this session will reach its goals and will be marked by practical achievements in efforts to counter transnational organised crime. We are ready to do all we can to contribute to this. The Russian Federation firmly believes that a priority area for the Commission's work should be consistent efforts to step up our common to combat all types of criminal challenges and threats. Very important here is that this work take place with the central coordinating role of the United Nations and in strict accordance with the fundamental principles of international law. As a responsible member of the international community, Russia remains open for constructive dialogue to resolve global tasks related to ending suppressing organised crime in all forms and manifestations. In this context, we again make a call on members to focus on working for effective means to suppress crime, such as by strengthening international legal frameworks and by ensuring anti crime, corruption and a spirit of equality and mutual respect. Unfortunately, we do see a high degree of politicisation of international cooperation in this area too. A number of countries are using various pretexts or even no explanation to refuse to satisfy Russia's requests to provide mutual legal assistance on criminal cases and extradition cases. What's more, there are attempts to introduce political elements to the work of the relevant mechanisms, including Interpol. Mr. Chair, we welcome the signing in Hanoi of the Convention on Cybercrime, which was elaborated on based on an initiative from the Russian Federation. And we call on those states who have not yet signed it to join this very useful, important international legal instrument, and to those who have already signed it to bring it into force and ratify it. The Russian Federation is focused on continuing the expansion of this document's scope with the protocol on additional criminal offences here. Particular attention should go on combating the use of ICT for terrorist and extremist purposes and to prevent drugs trafficking, firearms trafficking and also to take action on crimes using artificial intelligence. The Russian delegation will present a more detailed report here at the session on the implementation and ratification of the Convention on Cybercrime. And we also invite you to come to Russia's event on 3 June, a round table which will discuss the preparations of the protocol on additional offences. Mr. Chairperson, Russia over many years now has been working with UNODC to provide assistance to countries, and this is based on the principles of mutual respect and does not have any political undertone. In particular, in 2025, we increased to $3 million our annual contribution to the UNODC and this money has been earmarked for specialized projects to combat the use of ICT for criminal purposes and also to combat illicit drugs trafficking, corruption, piracy at sea. and we will continue to expand the geographical scope and the amount of this assistance and provide all round operational support. Mr. Chair, once again, let me reiterate the Russian Federation's commitment to combating crime and to, with the Commission, implementing the agenda. Thank you for your attention. And I would also, in conclusion, like to congratulate Ms. Dzhuma on the beginning of her important new mission here in Vienna at this, in this high post. Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you for this statement and I invite now her excellency, his excellency Mr. Kennedy Obed Reyes Lasso, ambassador and permanent representative of El Salvador to address the commission. Floor is yours.

Mr. Chairperson, on behalf of the Government of El Salvador, we congratulate you on your election to chair the work of this Commission, and we also congratulate the members of the Board and thank the Secretariat for all of its work to prepare this session. We also take this opportunity to congratulate Ms. Monica Juma on her appointment as the Director General of UNOV and the Executive Director of UNODC. My country places great importance on this. event and in this respect we reiterate our firm commitment to full respect of the rule of law and provision of justice as the foundations that guarantee equality access and effectively protect our citizens. Mr. Chair, for many years my country faced serious challenges stemming from criminal violence and the actions of terrorist groups and the expansion of criminal groups and these threats have greatly affected public security, economic development and social cohesion and for decades plunged El Salvador into impunity and violence and corruption. But we are now carrying out a comprehensive transformation on public security and criminal justice. This is based on regaining control of territory and institution building and effectively protecting our population. And thanks to the implementation of comprehensive security policies and our efforts to build operational capacity for the state and also our firm commitment, the commitment of our president, we have achieved a historic reduction in our homicide rate and also in cases of extortion, arms trafficking, trafficking in persons and crime in general. El Salvador is modernizing its public institutions and ensuring effective provision of justice and is restructuring its justice system in order to provide our population with safety, security and opportunities. The transformation in our country is reflected in figures. A decade ago, our country was the most violent country in the world, but in 2025, we had a homicide rate of only 1.3 homicides for each 100,000 people. And this rate continues to come down every year. Our national public safety policy, the policy of Nayib Bukele's government, has transformed El Salvador into the safest country in the Western Hemisphere. And these are sustained long-term results. And this thanks to the work we are carrying out in crime prevention, rebuilding the social fabric, and investing more in education and health. Mr. Chair, El Salvador recognizes that transnational organized crime remains a serious global threat and this requires coordinated, effective responses and international cooperation. My country's experience also shows that with bold leadership and with political will, we can make a difference. El Salvador today is a reference. We have useful experience that we could share. And so we stress the importance of information exchanges and of technical assistance and legal cooperation and multilateral mechanisms to combat all types of crime, especially organized crime. We therefore believe it essential to promote a holistic crime prevention strategies that give priority to social inclusion, education and opportunities for young people and that strengthen our communities. El Salvador will continue to work constructively and responsibly with members to advance towards safer, fairer, more humane societies. Thank you.

Thank you. And Excellencies, dear delegates, we will have two more speakers in this morning's sessions because we started with a delay in the morning. And it's now my pleasure to invite Mr. Muhammed Mirat Sabagoliev, Deputy General Prosecutor of Turkmenistan. Sir, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chairperson, distinguished delegates. Turkmenistan is grateful to UNODC for the efforts that went into organizing this important meeting. We support the international community's commitment to crime prevention and criminal justice, especially against the backdrop of evolving global challenges. Our approach to crime prevention is based on the rule of law, effective criminal justice measures, and crime prevention policies. While prosecution of criminals is the most important function of the criminal justice system, Turkmenistan attaches greater importance to crime prevention. Our priority focus is therefore on outreach efforts targeting the population, promoting a culture of lawfulness and supporting social policies aimed at eliminating the root causes of crime. In practice, this means combating trafficking in persons and corruption. under the coordination of the general prosecutor's office. I'd like to mention some of the key measures that we undertake in this connection. Firstly, our president has approved a national plan of action for the coming five years to combat trafficking in persons and to prevent corruption. The plan of action serves as a robust national framework document that includes key elements of the national strategy on prevention of crime, also protection of victims, criminal prosecution and partners. Interagency commissions serve as the coordinating mechanism here. We have a victim-centered approach with respect to trafficking in persons. And we are also focusing on new forms of cybercrime and we're conducting a program of digitalization. We also work closely with UNODC and other partners to build capacity for our national officials. We actively contribute to the work of the regional body of the Financial Action Task Force, the Eurasian Group, and other bodies aimed at that work on countering money laundering and terrorist financing, including the Globe Network and the International Anti-Corruption Academy. Chairperson, we firmly believe that this session of the Commission will provide us with a good platform for moving towards our common goals. Thank you.

Thank you for this statement. And now I have the pleasure to invite Mrs. Christine Klein, Director of International Negotiations, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Bureau of the Department of State of the United States of America. Madam, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. At the outset, the United States congratulates Dr. Monica Juma on her appointment to lead UNODC. Chair, the United States is here to sound the alarm on a crisis claiming the lives of children in our country and around the world: transnational sextortion. Sextortion is the fastest growing crime against American children. With permission of the families, let me be clear about the cost. Braden Michael Bone from Wisconsin was 15 years old. Caleb Moore from Kansas was 14 years old. Evan James Bettler from Missouri was 16 years old. James Woods from Ohio was 17 years old. Jordan Demay from Michigan was 17 years old. Riley Bassford from New York was 15 years old. Ryan Charles Last from California was 17 years old. Timothy Barnett from South Carolina was 13 years old. Walker Montgomery from Mississippi was 16 years old. These are among the 41 American children who have died by suicide since 2021 as a direct result of sextortion schemes. 41 children, 41 families destroyed. These stories should break the hearts of everyone in this room. Families shattered, communities grieving, futures stolen. We know how this works. Sextortion offenders pose as peers or romantic interests on social media or gaming platforms. They gain our children's trust, manipulating them into sharing intimate images, then threaten to release them or AI generated forgeries unless the child provides more explicit content or pays up. In the most sadistic cases, these predators go further, coercing children to harm themselves or others, perpetrating extreme and degrading abuse. The numbers are adding up. In 2022, 10,000 US reports of transnational sextortion. In 2023, 28,000. In 2024, 36,000. In 2025, more than 50,000. Most of these schemes originate in Nigeria, Cote d'Ivoire, and the Philippines. Unfortunately, governments are not doing enough. In Nigeria, scammers have been sentenced to prison terms with the option of paying a fine instead. To be clear, criminals can avoid prison for defrauding Americans by paying as little as $200. This is unacceptable. Governments must act. But the private sector also has a critical role to play in preventing their platforms from being misused to harm children online. They can incorporate safety by design, including through ensuring default protective measures and settings that safeguard children and children's information, and should provide more timely and robust reporting to law enforcement of apparent online child sexual exploitation. The United States is taking action. In March, President Trump signed an executive order on combating cybercrime fraud and predatory schemes against Americans to counter attacks on our citizens, to support victims, and specifically call for action related to sextortion schemes. The United States will not wait. We will deploy every tool in our arsenal, sanctions, visa restrictions, prosecutions, extraditions and more to dismantle these networks and protect our citizens. This week, we tabled the first UN resolution calling for greater action against transnational sextortion of children. We urge every government here to match our resolve, sponsor this resolution, and implement it. You must hold criminals accountable and deliver real protection for our children. As we leave this hall, I ask you to remember not only the numbers of those impacted, but the names behind them. Brayden, Caleb, Evan, James, Jordan, Riley, Ryan, Timothy, Walker. Their lives were cut short. Their families carry grief that will never fade. Let us honor them by committing to action today so that no child, no parent, no community has to endure this tragedy again. Thank you.

Thank you for the statement. And Excellencies, dear delegates, this brings us to the end of the morning session. We have one more plenary meeting today from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. And as mentioned earlier, we will provide an opportunity at the beginning of this afternoon meeting for a representative of the fourth Global Youth Forum for a Culture of Lawfulness to present recommendations of the youth forum to the Commission. And we will then continue with the statements by Germany, Philippines and Armenia. So we will start at 3 p.m. sharp as we want to conclude by 6 p.m. today. The meeting is adjourned.