The Budapest Convention on Cybercrime provides robust mechanisms to foster international cooperation in cybercrime and other criminal investigations involving electronic evidence. A key instrument is the 24/7 Network, established under Article 35, which requires member states to designate national contact points available on 24/7 for ensuring expedited operational cooperation.

Under the Second Additional Protocol of the Budapest Convention, the responsibilities of the 24/7 Network are further expanded, particularly regarding:

• Expedited disclosure of stored computer data in emergencies (Article 9); and
• Emergency mutual legal assistance procedures (Article 10).

Across Africa, a growing number of countries have joined the Convention and are now expected to fully engage in international operational cooperation, including through their national 24/7 contact points. To support this process, the Secretariat of the Network through the Cybercrime Programme Office of the Council of Europe (C-PROC), has provided guidance on the organization and functioning of the 24/7 contact point. In addition, good practices and experiences from other countries have been shared, helping to identify capacities and resources needed for conducting effective cooperation.

To reinforce these efforts, this regional training exercise has been proposed for African Parties and Observers. The event will combine practical elements, such as a case simulation exercise and theoretical sessions, designed to strengthen knowledge and operational readiness.

This initiative is aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of international operational cooperation through the 24/7 Network and ensure African countries are well-prepared to respond to cybercrime threats in a timely and coordinated manner.