Cisco has raised concerns about the recently adopted UN Convention Against Cybercrime, questioning its effectiveness in enforcing stricter international cybersecurity laws while preserving fundamental rights. The convention was developed in response to the global surge in cybercrime, which has prompted law enforcement agencies to enhance their capabilities to combat such crimes while balancing the protection of human rights.
Cisco’s blog highlights that the convention’s broad approach to regulating the misuse of computer networks may conflict with the values of free speech and liberal democratic principles. The company argues that the current text of the convention should be revised to better align with these democratic values and protect free speech, suggesting amendments before it is fully adopted by member states.
Eric Wenger, Senior Director of Technology Policy at Cisco, advocates for the convention to reflect the standards of the existing Council of Europe Cybercrime Treaty, known as the Budapest Convention. This treaty, which has been in place for over two decades, is seen as a balanced approach that ensures protection of rights while addressing cybercrime, and Cisco believes the UN Convention should align more closely with these established norms.
Cisco is open to collaborating with governments to address these issues and find a balance between effective cross-border cooperation and the protection of human rights. The success of the UN Convention will depend on achieving a careful balance between enhancing global cybersecurity efforts and maintaining rigorous transparency and human rights standards.
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