In a startling development just days before its scheduled commencement, the Zambian government has announced the cancellation of RightsCon 2026, the world’s largest conference on human rights and technology. Originally set to occur from 5-8 May in Lusaka, the government cited concerns over alignment with “national values” as the reason for its decision, which has drawn widespread criticism from activists and observers alike.
Government Justification for Cancellation
Thabo Kawana, Zambia’s permanent secretary for the Ministry of Information and Media, stated that the cancellation was necessary to ensure the conference aligned with the nation’s policy priorities and broader public interest. This summit was expected to attract over 2,600 participants, including activists, technologists, and policymakers, all intending to discuss pressing issues such as online hate, internet censorship, and the risks posed by artificial intelligence and surveillance.
The abrupt cancellation has raised eyebrows, particularly in light of local reports suggesting that pressure from China may have influenced the decision. The conference was to be held at a venue donated by China, and delegates from Taiwan were also set to attend, potentially complicating diplomatic relations.
Reactions from Human Rights Advocates
The decision has been met with fierce backlash from human rights defenders, who view it as a blatant act of censorship. Linda Kasonde, a prominent Zambian lawyer and civil society activist, condemned the cancellation as a significant setback for the country’s image and a troubling step back for human rights. “This was the first time RightsCon was being held in southern Africa, and it was an opportunity for our region to showcase its commitment to human rights,” Kasonde stated.
Kasonde further highlighted the potential political motivations behind the cancellation, suggesting it may be linked to the upcoming general elections in August 2026. She noted that the government has implemented laws that restrict public gatherings, thereby impeding the ability of political parties and civil society to organise and express dissent.
Impact on Participants and Global Discourse
Many delegates had already arranged their travel and accommodations, leading to frustration and disappointment among those who had invested considerable time and resources in preparation. Karna Kone from Côte d’Ivoire, who was scheduled to speak on a panel regarding digital censorship, expressed his dismay at the lost opportunity. “RightsCon was one of the few global platforms where we could share our work and connect with others facing similar challenges,” he lamented.
Chioma Agwuegbo, director of TechHer in Nigeria, echoed these sentiments, noting that the cancellation represents a broader trend of shrinking civic space across Africa. “These constraints not only silence voices but also undermine the ecosystems that work to protect fundamental human rights, particularly for women and girls online,” she asserted.
The Broader Implications
The cancellation of RightsCon 2026 is not merely a logistical setback; it signals a worrisome trend in the treatment of civil society and free expression in Zambia. Sibongile Ndashe, a South African lawyer and human rights advocate, warned that normalising the cancellation of conferences could jeopardise the ability of human rights organisations to convene and collaborate effectively. “Restrictions on human rights disproportionately affect the most vulnerable and marginalised members of society,” she cautioned.
The fallout from this decision could reverberate beyond Zambia, affecting international perceptions of the country’s commitment to human rights and democracy.
Why it Matters
The abrupt cancellation of RightsCon 2026 underscores the precarious state of civil liberties in Zambia and highlights the growing pressures faced by activists. In an era where global discourse around human rights and technology is becoming increasingly critical, Zambia’s move away from hosting such a significant event could stifle essential conversations surrounding digital rights and freedoms. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for democratic values in the face of rising authoritarianism, not just in Zambia, but across the continent and beyond.