CRDF Global Hosts Judicial Sector Workshop on Digital and Cyber Evidence
In today’s world, where digital technologies are integral to all spheres of life, digital evidence has become a cornerstone of carrying out justice. Proper collection, analysis, and protection of such evidence are critical not only for ensuring fairness in judicial proceedings but also for maintaining overall cybersecurity. The ability of legal professionals to work effectively with digital evidence can significantly influence the outcome of court cases.
On December 3–4, 2024, in Vienna, Austria, CRDF Global hosted the Judicial Sector Diagnostic Workshop: Digital and Cyber Evidence, which gathered representatives from national Judicial Education and Training Centers across Western Balkan countries. It provided a platform to discuss best practices for handling digital evidence and to identify potential gaps that require further investigation and in-depth study.
During the workshop, participants conducted a comprehensive assessment of the judicial sector’s needs in each Western Balkan country. Discussions focused on challenges related to cybercrime, crimes committed using digital technologies, and current practices for utilizing digital evidence in judicial processes. Participants—including judges, prosecutors, investigators, legal assistants, and academic legal practitioners—engaged in discussions to identify the challenges each country faces in applying digital evidence.
The participants also discussed key principles of safe handling of digital data, emphasizing the need to protect information from unauthorized access, ensure its authenticity, and maintain continuity.
Experts emphasized that effective handling of digital evidence requires the implementation of robust cybersecurity standards within judicial systems. These standards include staff training, the adoption of advanced information protection technologies, the organization of specialized judiciary training programs, and compliance with EU procedures and standards.
The collaborative format allowed stakeholders to identify gaps in current practices and evaluate mechanisms for improving the use of digital evidence in court proceedings. This assessment will assist CRDF Global’s future programs, ensuring they address the region’s specific needs.
This workshop represented a significant step forward in enhancing digital evidence practices within judicial systems, fostering improved cybersecurity and promoting more effective justice across the Western Balkans
The event was organized by CRDF Global in partnership with technology companies LeeLand Consulting and Digital Shield, with financial and strategic support from the U.S. Department of State.
