In a shocking turn of events, the Zambian government has scrapped the world’s largest human rights and technology summit, RightsCon 2026, just days before its scheduled start in Lusaka. This abrupt cancellation has raised serious concerns over state censorship and the government’s commitment to democratic values, especially in light of reports suggesting pressure from China due to the attendance of Taiwanese delegates.
A Sudden Withdrawal
Originally slated for 5-8 May 2026, RightsCon was set to gather over 2,600 activists, technologists, and policymakers to address critical issues surrounding human rights in the digital realm. Topics ranged from the dangers of online hate speech to the implications of artificial intelligence, surveillance, and the militarisation of technology. However, the Zambian Ministry of Information & Media issued a statement last week declaring that the event did not align with “national values” and was therefore being cancelled.
Thabo Kawana, the permanent secretary for the Ministry, remarked that the decision aimed to ensure that the conference aligns with the country’s policy priorities and broader public interests. This last-minute cancellation has left many stunned, especially since the Zambian government had been involved in the planning for over a year.
Activists Decry Censorship
Linda Kasonde, a prominent Zambian lawyer and civil society advocate, condemned the government’s decision, labelling it a blatant act of censorship. “When this administration came into power, it championed the rule of law and democracy. What we are witnessing is a gradual erosion of freedoms—of expression and assembly,” she lamented.
Kasonde further suggested that the cancellation might be politically motivated, coming as the nation approaches general elections in August 2026. “The government appears to be tightening its grip ahead of the polls, implementing laws that favour their power retention while stifling dissent,” she added. Kasonde characterised the summit’s cancellation as a significant blow to Zambia’s international reputation, especially as it was to be the first RightsCon held in Southern Africa.
International Outcry
The reverberations of this decision have reached beyond Zambia’s borders. Access Now, the New York-based organisation behind RightsCon, expressed its dismay at the unilateral cancellation, stating, “This action exemplifies the far-reaching effects of transnational repression targeting civil society, which is already under immense financial and political strain.”
Many delegates, who had arranged travel and accommodations, now face significant financial losses. Karna Kone, an activist from Côte d’Ivoire, lamented the logistical challenges he faced to attend, saying, “It’s not just a monetary loss; it’s an opportunity lost to engage in crucial discussions about digital censorship, especially concerning reproductive health rights.”
This sentiment was echoed by Chioma Agwuegbo, director of TechHer in Nigeria, who highlighted that RightsCon provided a rare platform for organisations to devise solutions to pressing issues. “As civic spaces continue to shrink across the continent, this incident reflects a troubling trend where compliance mechanisms are weaponised to stifle dialogue and dissent,” she stated, emphasising the negative impact on vulnerable communities.
The Broader Implications
The implications of this cancellation extend far beyond a singular event. Human rights activists have warned that such state actions can set a perilous precedent. Sibongile Ndashe, a South African lawyer and human rights advocate, noted, “If cancelling conferences becomes standard practice, it will progressively hinder the ability of human rights groups to convene.”
The ongoing suppression of dialogue not only diminishes the prospect of reform but also contributes to a climate of fear that harms those already marginalised. The irony is stark: a conference dedicated to empowering digital rights has been silenced by the very forces it sought to challenge.
Why it Matters
The cancellation of RightsCon 2026 serves as a grave indicator of Zambia’s deteriorating commitment to human rights and democracy. With the looming general elections, the government’s actions raise alarm bells about the future of civil liberties in the nation. As civic space shrinks, the voices of the vulnerable and disenfranchised are muffled, leaving a chilling effect on free expression and assembly. This incident underscores the urgent need for international solidarity and advocacy for the protection of fundamental rights in Zambia and beyond.