We live in an era where technology is embedded in almost every aspect of our lives, putting authorities around the world at a critical position in the battle against cyber crime. Digital technology provides immense opportunities for progress and innovation, but it also leaves everyone – institutions, companies, and individuals – vulnerable to risks and threats. As we embrace the digital age, it is imperative for countries to fortify their defenses, protect their citizens, and safeguard their digital infrastructure.
Therefore, a day workshop on the Budapest Convention on Cyber crimes and its Second Additional Protocol on Enhanced Cooperation and Disclosure of Electronic Evidence has been conducted for all Policy/ law makers and other key stakeholders in the cyber ecosystem on the 13th November 2023 at the New Brook fields Hotel, Jomo Kenyatta Road, Freetown by the National Cyber security Coordination Center in collaboration with the Global Action on Cyber crimes project ( GLACY +).
The workshop was graced by the Honorable Judges of the High Court of the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, Honorable vice chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Communications Innovation and Technology, the Honorable Deputy Minister of Communications, Technology, and Innovation,Inspector General of the Police, representative from the Sierra Leone Bar Association, representative from the Ministry of Communications Technology and Innovation, Service providers, members of the fourth estate, to name a few.
In February 2023, Sierra Leone was invited to accede to the Budapest Convention and its Protocols. The aim of the workshop was to discuss the benefits and requirements of the Budapest Convention and its Second Protocol and the requisites needed to ensure proper application of the Sierra Leone Cyber security and Crime Act 2021.
Being part of the Convention and both Protocols is crucial for the criminal justice system as it will ascertain effective and efficient international cooperation for the exchange of digital evidence for the country to successfully investigate, prosecute and adjudicate cyber-related crimes nationally and internationally. Additionally, it will demonstrate Sierra Leone’s commitment to fight against cyber crimes at International level.
According to the National Coordinator of the National Cyber security Coordination Center Madam Mariama Yormah,
Our ability to confront and mitigate cyber threats relies heavily on our collective efforts and shared commitments to cooperation, as no single country, organization, or entity can combat the complexities of cyber threats in isolation. International collaboration is not merely an option; it is a necessity.
Addressing cyber threats requires a robust ecosystem of laws and policies, providing the criminal justice authorities the means to effectively intervene, to catch and punish offenders.
The fight against Cyber security indeed takes Collaboration, Vigilance, and Cooperation of all.
Together we can!!
Together we will!!
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education
Council of Europe
Orange