The workshop focused on the legal and operational challenges involved in accessing electronic evidence in cross-border criminal investigations. The discussions addressed the different stages of obtaining data, from identifying relevant information and preserving data to requesting its disclosure through appropriate cooperation channels.

Building on the experience and resources developed by the SIRIUS Project, the workshop combined expert presentations, including from Rakuten, Japan, practical discussions and case-based exercises. Sessions covered different modalities for obtaining electronic evidence, including voluntary requests, emergency disclosure, direct access and mutual legal assistance, as well as relevant international and EU legal frameworks. On the second day, EU prosecutors from Portugal and Germany shared their experience of investigating online child sexual abuse material and chain of custody.

The workshop has been an opportunity to introduce participants to the SIRIUS Platform and to address practical challenges related to online harmful content, chain of custody and cooperation with service providers. By bringing together practitioners from across the Western Balkans, the event supported the exchange of experiences and reinforced their capacity to use appropriate mechanisms for accessing electronic evidence in cross-border investigations.