Dominic Ayine leads Ghana's charge at Global Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Forum

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, spoke at the 34th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ). This event took place in Vienna, Austria, from May 19 to 23, 2025.

Ghana's delegation included Matilda Alomatu Osei-Agyeman, Ambassador to Austria and the UN. Other officials from the Office of the Attorney-General, Ministry of Justice, and Ghana's Embassy in Vienna also attended.

In his address, Dr. Ayine focused on "Advancing sustainable, inclusive solutions for the 2030 Agenda." He reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to this agenda and its principle of "leaving no one behind."

He explained how Ghana is integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national policy. The country prioritizes energy and education while focusing on marginalized groups like youth and persons with disabilities.

Dr. Ayine highlighted key initiatives such as "Adwumawura," a national apprenticeship program. He also mentioned the "One Million Coders" project aimed at equipping youth with digital skills. These initiatives promote economic inclusion and help prevent youth crime.

Regarding women’s empowerment, he announced plans for a Women's Development Bank. Funding will be allocated in the 2025 budget to support female entrepreneurs.

Dr. Ayine emphasized environmental protection efforts. He called for stronger international cooperation against environmental crimes.

The discussions addressed new forms of crime affecting the environment and cultural property. Topics included smuggling commercial goods and trafficking in cultural items.

Ghana's Ambassador Matilda Alomatu Osei-Agyeman spoke on behalf of the African Group. She reaffirmed Africa's commitment to implementing the Kyoto Declaration ahead of the 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention.

She stressed addressing both effects and root causes of transnational organized crime. This aligns with Agenda 2030 and Africa’s Agenda 2063 goals.

During CCPCJ, Dr. Ayine met with UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly. They discussed enhancing collaboration against corruption and improving criminal justice systems through technology and partnerships.

Other meetings involved strategic countries like Japan, the UK, EU nations, South Africa, and the USA to strengthen crime prevention efforts.

Ghana co-organized a side event with UNODC about good governance in policymaking. They presented an evaluation of Ghana’s National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP).

Dr. Ayine and Ambassador Osei-Agyeman shared insights on fighting corruption during this event.

Ghana also participated in discussions about cybercrime conventions and oversight investigations related to torture.

The active participation by Dr. Ayine highlighted evidence-based approaches to crime prevention within Africa’s context.

As preparations begin for the upcoming UN Congress on Crime Prevention, this session sets a foundation for deeper cooperation globally.

Ghana remains committed to peace, justice, and rule of law alongside international partners for a safer world.

The Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice is a key UN body focused on crime prevention policies worldwide. Its annual sessions encourage dialogue among member states for best practices sharing.