A three-day training activity on cybercrime and electronic evidence took place in Bogota, Colombia, between 10-12 September. With the support of GLACY-e, the event was jointly organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Superior Council of the Judiciary, and the Office of the Attorney General. This training of trainers brought together 29 participants, including judges, magistrates, prosecutors, and cybersecurity responders.
In his welcoming address, the Minister Counsellor, Director in charge of Multilateral Political Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the work of Colombia in the Convention on Cybercrime (Budapest Convention) process, emphasizing the relevance of having trained professionals who have the mandate of fighting against cybercrime. In addition, the Magistrate of the Superior Council of the Judiciary pointed out that the added value of this training activity lies on the possibility to bring together professionals of different entities with the mission to learn about the Budapest Convention and about how the treaty contributes to facing common cybercrime challenges.
The Specialized Director against Computer Crimes of the Attorney General's Office addressed current challenges linked to the increase of cybercrime in Colombia and welcomed the contribution of the GLACY-e project, particularly in maturing the skills of different law enforcement and judiciary representatives. Finally, the Deputy Head of Cooperation, Delegation of the European Union to Colombia reiterated the commitment of the EU to fight against cybercrime and highlighted the high commitment of Colombian institutions towards the same purpose.
This capacity building activity allowed participants to learn and discuss common cybercrime challenges in a multidisciplinary setting. A highly collaborative environment could be observed throughout the event and participants manifested their satisfaction with the content and quality of discussions. More specifically, beneficiaries of this training could increase their understanding of electronic evidence, substantive provisions, and procedural powers of the Budapest Convention.
In its effort to support Colombian authorities to increase capacities on cybercrime and electronic evidence, this activity represents a step forward in the process facilitated by the GLACY-e project, oriented to enhance alignment with the Budapest Convention, including ratification of the Second Additional Protocol on enhanced co-operation and disclosure of electronic evidence.
Convention on Cybercrime (Budapest Convention)