The document contains a short history of international cooperation against crime. It also discusses the costs of crime; the United Nations crime prevention system; United Nations Congresses on the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders; technical cooperation and advisory services; and affiliated and associated institutes. An appendix concerning United Nations standards, guidelines and international instruments contains data on 24 topics, including: the treatment of prisoners; torture; conduct of law enforcement officials; crime prevention and criminal justice in the context of development and a new economic order; the independence of the judiciary; juvenile justice; transfer and treatment of foreign prisoners; abuse of power; the role of lawyers and prosecutors; extradition; mutual assistance in criminal matters; model treaty for the prevention of crimes that infringe on the cultural heritage of peoples in the form of movable property; and international terrorism. Appendix