This milestone follows the passing of the Ratification legal framework of the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime by the Parliament in November 2024, reflecting the nation’s resolve to align its legal and institutional frameworks with global standards for combating cybercrime.

The Budapest Convention, the first international treaty addressing crimes committed via the internet and other computer networks, provides a comprehensive legal framework for harmonizing national laws, fostering effective investigative techniques, and enhancing international cooperation on cybercrime and electronic evidence.

By becoming a party to the Budapest Convention, Vanuatu gains access to a robust legal framework for international cooperation on cybercrime and electronic evidence. This includes joining the 24/7 network of experts on cybersecurity and cybercrime and it enables opportunities for capacity building and technical assistance to strenghten national capabilities in cybersecurity and cybercrime investigation and prosecution. It also provides opportunities for the exchange of expert view, best practices, and guidance for effective implementation.