The Convention on Cybercrime was signed in Budapest, Hungary, as a response to the increasing incidence of criminal activity on the internet. Countries recognized that the nature of cybercrime transcended national borders, presenting complex challenges that required a coordinated international response. The need to establish a common framework for combating cybercrime became evident, prompting the Council of Europe to take the initiative for this treaty. Legal experts, law enforcement officials, and policymakers from different countries worked collaboratively to draft a convention that would not only criminalize specific acts of cybercrime but also promote mutual assistance and cooperation among countries.

The signing of this treaty marked a significant milestone in international law and technology governance. The Convention laid down various principles for the investigation of cyber crimes, such as maintaining the integrity of computer systems, protecting online data, and ensuring swift judicial procedures. It includes provisions on the harmonization of national laws regarding offenses related to computer systems, computer data, and content, setting forth guidelines for law enforcement agencies on how to access digital evidence across borders.

The various participants included representatives from member states of the Council of Europe, as well as non-member states who showed interest in joining. By establishing this legal framework, the Convention aimed to foster trust and cooperation, ultimately resulting in more effective responses to cybercrime incidents globally. The treaty was seen as vital in an age where the internet was becoming an integral part of daily life, touching almost every aspect of society and influencing nearly all economic activities.