According to a statement from the Council of Europe, the accession was formalized on January 10, 2025, when Rwanda deposited the instrument of accession to both the Convention (ETS 185) and its Additional Protocol (ETS 189).
The Budapest Convention, established by the Council of Europe in 2001, is the foremost international treaty aimed at combating cybercrime by harmonizing national laws, enhancing investigative techniques, and fostering international cooperation.
The Additional Protocol, effective since 2006, mandates the criminalization of distributing racist and xenophobic material through computer systems, as well as threats and insults motivated by such biases.
Rwanda's journey toward this milestone began in October 2023, when it was invited to accede to the Convention. Subsequently, the Rwandan Ministry of ICT, with support from the Council of Europe's GLACY-e project, initiated reforms to align its domestic legislation with international standards. This included drafting amendments to the existing Law on Prevention and Punishment of Cybercrimes to ensure compliance with the Convention's provisions.
The Council of Europe, an international organization with the goal of upholding human rights and democracy, has expressed its commitment to continue supporting Rwanda in implementing the Convention's measures.
The collaboration is expected to enhance Rwanda's capabilities in combating cybercrime and facilitate more effective international cooperation in addressing cyber threats.
Rwanda's accession reflects a growing commitment among African nations to tackle cybercrime through international collaboration. By joining the Budapest Convention and its Additional Protocol, Rwanda strengthens its legal framework against cybercrime and aligns with global efforts to promote a safer and more secure cyberspace.
South Africa was the first African country to sign the treaty in 2001, though it has not yet ratified it. Mauritius followed in 2004, committing to strengthening cybersecurity.
Additionally, Nigeria and Kenya have expressed interest in expanding their cybercrime legislation and are expected to play significant roles in the future of African cybersecurity. Other African countries that have joined the Convention include Morocco, Tunisia, and Senegal, all contributing to regional cooperation in tackling cybercrime.
Other notable countries from around the world that are part of the Convention include Russia, Canada, Australia, Japan, and Brazil. These countries, alongside several European nations like France, Germany, and Italy, and North American powers like the United States, continue to collaborate through the Convention, strengthening international ties and advancing collective efforts to combat cyber threats.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/science-technology/article/rwanda-joins-global-cybercrime-treaty
