In a significant development, Zambia has abruptly cancelled the highly anticipated RightsCon 2026 summit, an international conference focusing on human rights in the digital era, just days before its scheduled commencement on 5 May. The Zambian government cited the need for the event to align with “national values,” raising concerns about freedom of expression and governmental influence over civil society.
Unforeseen Cancellation
Initially, the Zambian authorities had expressed support for RightsCon 2026, which was set to take place in Lusaka from 5-8 May, bringing together over 2,600 activists, technologists, academics, and policymakers. The summit aimed to explore pressing issues such as online hate speech, internet censorship, artificial intelligence, and the militarisation of technology—all vital topics as democratic rights, particularly those of women and LGBTQ+ individuals, face increasing threats.
However, Thabo Kawana, the permanent secretary at the Ministry of Information and Media, announced the cancellation last week, suggesting that it was necessary to ensure the conference aligned with the country’s policy priorities and public interests. This decision has been met with widespread condemnation from human rights advocates who argue it represents a clear instance of censorship.
Allegations of External Pressure
Reports from within Zambia hint at possible external influences, particularly from China, which had offered the venue for the summit. With delegates from Taiwan expected to participate, some observers suspect that the Zambian government’s decision may have been swayed by diplomatic pressures. Linda Kasonde, a well-respected Zambian lawyer and human rights activist, expressed her disappointment, stating that the cancellation reflects a troubling trend of diminishing freedoms in the country.
Kasonde highlighted that this decision could be politically motivated, particularly as Zambia approaches its general elections in August 2026. She noted the government’s recent actions to tighten control over public discourse, which could undermine the democratic process and silence dissenting voices.
Impact on Civil Society
The abrupt cancellation has significant implications for civil society in Zambia and beyond. RightsCon’s organiser, Access Now, expressed frustration over the unilateral decision, stressing that it exemplifies the growing threats to civil society and the shrinking spaces for dialogue. Many delegates had already invested considerable time and resources in preparing for the event, including travel arrangements which now stand in jeopardy.
Karna Kone, a participant from Côte d’Ivoire, lamented the loss of a platform to discuss crucial issues surrounding digital censorship and the challenges faced by organisations focused on sexual and reproductive health rights. “This was one of the few global gatherings where we could connect and share our experiences,” Kone remarked, underscoring the missed opportunities for collaboration and advocacy.
Continued Deterioration of Rights
Human rights defenders, including Chioma Agwuegbo from Nigeria’s TechHer, voiced alarm over the cancellation, indicating that such actions are part of a broader trend of diminishing civic spaces across Africa. “This incident reflects a troubling pattern where compliance mechanisms are weaponised to restrict dialogue and dissent, ultimately silencing the voices of those advocating for human rights,” Agwuegbo stated.
Martha Dimitratou, director of Repro Uncensored, noted the irony of cancelling a conference dedicated to promoting rights in digital spaces. The decision raises serious questions about the Zambian government’s commitment to upholding fundamental freedoms, particularly as it relates to vulnerable communities.
Why it Matters
The cancellation of RightsCon 2026 is not merely an administrative setback; it underscores a growing trend of governmental repression against civil society in Zambia and similar contexts worldwide. As nations grapple with the complexities of digital rights and freedoms, such actions threaten to curtail essential discussions and advocacy efforts. The implications extend beyond Zambia, highlighting a global struggle for civil liberties in the face of political expediency and external pressures. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of rights in the digital age and the ongoing need for vigilance and solidarity among advocates for human rights.
