NCJ Number
157461
Date Published
1994
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This report reviews progress made in the development of the computerized United Nations Crime and Justice Information Network, its scope, and planned activities, with particular reference to the needs and difficulties, both logistical and technical, relating to the electronic distribution of crime- related information to and from developing countries.
Abstract
Following an introductory review of the legislative and substantive background of the United Nations Crime and Justice Information Network (UNCJIN), the report profiles UNCJIN's services and the role it plays in the global information society. Problems and challenges identified and discussed are the globalization of criminal justice and diversity of criminal justice policies, electronically distributed criminal justice information and its reliability, electronic libraries, and the participation of developing countries. A discussion of the future development of the UNCJIN focuses on its transfer to the United Nations Office in Vienna and the role of governments, interregional and regional institutes, and other entities. The report recommends that the United Nations Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Branch should continue to increase its efforts to store and disseminate not only its own data, but also data from other agencies, institutes, and entities that cooperate with the United Nations in crime prevention and criminal justice. In addition to storing and disseminating databases, this branch should also move toward fulfilling its other clearinghouse function of providing a gateway to other databases and information around the world through the latest Internet software. Other recommendations pertain to the use and provision of information and assistance to developing countries. 8 notes and appended discussion of the connection of developing countries to Internet