Colombia Engages in Global Initiative for Crime Prevention at 33rd CCPCJ Session in Vienna
The event took place at the United Nations Office in Vienna
May 21st, 2024
From May 13 to 17, Colombia has been an active participant in the 33rd session of the Commission for Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, held at the UN Office in Vienna. During this time, international delegates gather to debate and formulate responses to global criminal challenges. This session has become a platform for international discussions on improving mechanisms to address various criminal activities.
Vice Minister of Multilateral Affairs, Elizabeth Inés Taylor Jay, during the General Debate, spoke about Colombia’s commitment to global peace. She highlighted the nation’s strategies focusing on human security and life protection. According to the vice minister, these efforts are integral to Colombia’s broader agenda of fostering social and environmental justice, thereby contributing to the goals set for 2030 by the United Nations.
An emphasis was also placed on the pervasive issue of organized crime. Vice Minister Taylor Jay underscored the necessity of bolstering global efforts to dismantle these criminal networks, which are a major barrier to the socio-economic progress outlined in the 2030 Agenda.
Adding to Colombia’s advocacy for stronger global cooperation, Ambassador Laura Gil, who also serves as the president of the G-77 Vienna chapter, urged the international community to tackle new and emerging crime forms. She advocated for a multidisciplinary approach that encompasses issues from the return of stolen assets and combating migrant smuggling to the illegal trafficking of cultural heritage and firearms.
Ambassador Gil was also at the forefront of a side event that introduced innovative strategies for combating environmental crimes. This event showcased the role of financial intelligence in tracing and curtailing illicit financial flows associated with environmental offenses. Noteworthy participants included FINTRAC Canada, the NGO Wildlife for Justice Commission, and Interpol, supported by the UNODC Office in Colombia.
Moreover, Ambassador Gil participated in another significant discussion on May 15, advocating for a human rights-based approach to criminal law, anchored in the principles established by the International Commission of Jurists on March 8. This side event, supported by Colombia, emphasized integrating human rights doctrines in the crafting and enforcement of criminal law.
The session’s thematic discussions extended into the areas of corruption, terrorism and other criminal forms, stressing the importance of international cooperation in extradition, mutual legal assistance and asset recovery. This comprehensive approach demonstrates a global resolve to not only address crime but also strengthen legal frameworks and international solidarity.
Colombia’s participation and leadership in the 33rd session of the CCPCJ illustrate the country’s role in shaping a secure and just international order. Through extensive dialogue and collaborative strategies, the country continues to work towards addressing pressing criminal justice challenges, aiming for a peaceful and equitable global environment.
