While this year is expected to witness a further decline in the number of criminal cases and a reduction in serious violent crimes, there may simultaneously be an increase in new offenses impacting economic and social management, along with a rise in telecom fraud-related activities, according to a report.

The Annual Report on Rule of Law, released by the Institute of Law at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences on Tuesday, highlights that years of sustained efforts by various departments have led to a continuous decrease in criminal cases, contributing to China's recognition as one of the safest countries globally by the international community.

Official data cited in the report reveals that from 2020 to 2024, Chinese courts concluded 243,000 cases of serious violent crimes, such as intentional homicide, intentional injury, robbery, and rape, representing a 6.75 percent decrease compared to the previous five years.

The report notes that Chinese judicial authorities have consistently intensified their crackdown on crimes involving national security, corruption, human trafficking, and drugs, imposing harsher punishments on offenders to ensure a safer environment for the public.

Despite the progress, the report stresses the importance of maintaining focus on key areas in 2026, including national security, economic security, cybersecurity, and the safety of people's livelihoods.

While calling for ongoing efforts to combat violent, terrorist, and corruption-related crimes, it requires strengthening measures in the economic and financial sectors, with particular emphasis placed on tackling financial fraud, securities offenses, money laundering involving virtual currencies, and the production or sale of counterfeit goods.

The report also underscores the need to intensify crackdowns on cross-border online gambling and personal data infringements, aiming for a comprehensive approach to crimes related to telecom fraud.

Furthermore, it recommends that judicial authorities enhance legal aid and support for vulnerable groups such as migrant workers, children, the elderly, and women experiencing domestic violence to improve their sense of fulfillment, happiness, and security.