The United Arab Emirates is set to play a pivotal role in international crime prevention and criminal justice by hosting the Fifteenth United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi from September 26 to October 1, 2026. With an anticipated participation of 3,000 to 5,000 attendees from over 97 countries, this significant event will take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
UAE’s Commitment to International Cooperation
The UAE’s preparations for the Congress were highlighted during a press conference led by His Excellency Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice and Chairman of the Federal Judicial Council. He outlined the nation’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation and strengthening the rule of law in an increasingly complex global landscape. The Congress aims to foster dialogue and support practical partnerships that promote societal security and stability. According to Al Nuaimi, one of the key outcomes anticipated from this gathering is the Abu Dhabi Declaration project, which will guide collective efforts in crime prevention over the next five years.
Significant Participation and Collaborative Efforts
The Congress expects participation from over 32 ministers of justice and 93 speakers from diverse countries and regions. High-level engagement will also include 62 participants, with 46 attending in person and 16 virtually. Judge Hatem Fouad, the Regional Representative for the Gulf region at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, emphasized the Congress’s relevance amid rapidly evolving criminal methods. This event is not just a platform for discussion but also a means for states to create a unified response to pressing challenges in crime prevention and justice.
Moreover, Al Nuaimi stated that the UAE views hosting this Congress as an opportunity to build strategic partnerships and undertake cooperative actions. His emphasis on turning international dialogue into actionable solutions resonates with the themes discussed at the Congress, which encompass innovative approaches in tackling organized crime, cybercrime, and other emerging threats.
Structure and Focus Areas of the Congress
The Congress will address critical topics such as the development of evidence-based strategies for crime prevention, strengthening people-centered justice systems, and promoting international cooperation. Participants will engage in various sessions, workshops, and discussions focusing on pressing issues like terrorism, human trafficking, money laundering, and environmental crimes. A key highlight will be the examination of the responsible use of technology in justice systems, ensuring a focus on rights and privacy while enhancing transparency and accountability.
The Abu Dhabi Declaration project is central to the Congress’s goals. Built on four foundational pillars—prevention and resilience, justice and the rule of law, evolving criminal threats, and innovation and cooperation—the declaration aims to provide practical directions for enhancing global crime prevention frameworks. The near-completion of the declaration text shows a strong consensus among participating states, indicating a collective commitment to addressing current and future challenges in criminal justice.
Footballing towards a Collaborative Future
With a comprehensive program that includes high-level segments, plenary sessions, and special workshops, the Congress aims to bridge gaps between policy and practice. This will directly support the shared goal of creating efficient justice systems that safeguard rights and bolster communities. Prior to the Congress, a Youth Forum will be hosted to engage younger voices in discussions about the future of justice in a world increasingly influenced by technology and change.
As the UAE takes the helm of the Congress for the next five years, the nation is poised to uphold its role as a central hub for dialogue on crime prevention. This responsibility will not only enhance the UAE’s reputation on a global scale but also support ongoing efforts to foster secure and just societies worldwide.