In a surprising and controversial decision, the Zambian government has cancelled the highly anticipated RightsCon 2026 summit just days before its scheduled commencement. Originally set to take place in Lusaka from 5-8 May, this conference aimed to address pressing issues surrounding human rights in the digital age. Officials cited a need for the event to align with “national values” as the primary reason for the cancellation, prompting widespread accusations of censorship and political repression.
Government Claims Alignment with National Values
The abrupt cancellation has been officially justified by Thabo Kawana, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Information and Media. He stated that the conference did not conform to Zambia’s policy priorities or broader public interests. This rationale has been met with scepticism, particularly as Zambia had initially welcomed the summit, indicating a willingness to engage in critical discussions about the intersection of technology and human rights.
With over 2,600 global participants expected, including activists, technologists, and policymakers, the summit was poised to tackle significant issues such as online hate speech, digital surveillance, and disinformation. Organisers from Access Now, the New York-based organisation behind RightsCon, expressed their dismay at the government’s unilateral decision, labelling it a blatant act of repression against civil society.
Allegations of External Pressure
Reports emerging from local media suggest that the cancellation may stem from external pressures, particularly from China. Notably, several delegates from Taiwan were slated to attend the event, which was to be held in a venue donated by the Chinese government. This has sparked speculation about whether diplomatic considerations influenced the Zambian administration’s decision to pull the plug on the conference.
Linda Kasonde, a prominent Zambian lawyer and civil rights advocate, has condemned the government’s actions as indicative of a worrying trend towards the erosion of fundamental freedoms. Kasonde noted that this cancellation reveals a growing disregard for democratic principles, stating, “When the current administration came into power, they were a government of rule of law and democracy. What we are seeing is a slow degradation of rights – of freedom of expression and the right to assemble.”
Voices Silenced, Opportunities Lost
The abrupt cancellation has left many delegates reeling, with several having already arranged travel plans and accommodations. Karna Kone from Côte d’Ivoire, who was scheduled to speak on digital censorship, lamented the wasted resources and opportunities. “Travelling from West Africa is very expensive and a lot of logistical work. It’s a loss in terms of money and of energy,” he expressed.
Chioma Agwuegbo, director of the Nigerian organisation TechHer, emphasised the importance of such platforms for addressing urgent challenges facing women and girls in technology. She remarked, “These constraints silence voices and weaken ecosystems working to protect fundamental human rights, including the safety and dignity of women and girls online.” The cancellation has not only deprived participants of a vital forum for discussion but has also stifled critical conversations about issues affecting marginalised communities across the continent.
A Dangerous Precedent
The implications of this cancellation extend beyond the immediate disappointment for attendees. Sibongile Ndashe, a South African lawyer and human rights activist, warned that normalising the cancellation of conferences could severely undermine the work of human rights organisations. “If cancellation of conferences becomes normalised, it is human rights groups that will progressively find it hard to convene,” she cautioned. “Restrictions on human rights harm those without power.”
This situation reflects a broader trend of diminishing civic space and increasing authoritarian measures in several African nations. As Zambia approaches its upcoming general elections in August 2026, the government’s actions are seen by many as an attempt to suppress dissent and consolidate power.
Why it Matters
The cancellation of RightsCon 2026 serves as a stark reminder of the fragile state of human rights in many parts of the world, particularly in contexts where civic spaces are increasingly under threat. By silencing discussions on crucial issues such as digital rights and freedoms, the Zambian government not only undermines its own democratic principles but also sends a chilling message to activists and organisations striving for change. The world is watching, and this incident may have lasting repercussions for Zambia’s international reputation and its commitment to upholding human rights.
