Zambia has recently scrapped the upcoming RightsCon 2026, the world’s largest summit focused on human rights and technology, just days before its scheduled commencement. Set to take place in Lusaka from May 5 to 8, the government’s abrupt decision has raised serious concerns regarding censorship and the stifling of civil discourse in the country.
Concerns Over National Values
Initially, the Zambian government had extended a warm welcome to the RightsCon conference, which aimed to explore critical issues such as digital rights, online hate speech, and the implications of artificial intelligence. However, Thabo Kawana, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Information and Media, announced last week that the conference would not proceed, citing a lack of alignment with “national values, policy priorities, and broader public interest considerations.”
Over 2,600 participants, including activists, technologists, and policymakers from around the globe, were expected to converge in Lusaka to engage in discussions vital for the protection of human rights in an increasingly digital world. This included pressing topics like internet shutdowns, surveillance, and the militarisation of technology, especially at a time when the rights of women and the LGBTQ+ community are under threat globally.
A Blatant Act of Censorship
The decision has been met with significant backlash from rights activists who perceive it as a blatant infringement on freedom of expression. Linda Kasonde, a prominent Zambian lawyer and civil society advocate, expressed her disappointment, noting that the current administration, which initially championed democracy and the rule of law, appears to be reversing course.
“The government is putting in place laws that facilitate their grip on power ahead of the elections in August 2026,” Kasonde stated. “This cancellation not only tarnishes Zambia’s image but also represents a broader trend of silencing critical voices within society.”
The conference, which was set to highlight the first RightsCon held in Southern Africa, represents a significant opportunity for regional dialogue, now lost due to this last-minute cancellation. Kasonde lamented the irony of a gathering aimed at promoting rights being curtailed by the very authorities responsible for upholding them.
International Repercussions
RightsCon’s organisers, Access Now, voiced their deep disappointment in a statement, emphasising that they had diligently worked with Zambian officials over the past year to ensure the event’s transparency and mutual understanding. They described the abrupt cancellation as indicative of “transnational repression targeting civil society” and underscored the existential threats faced by organisations working to uphold human rights.
Many delegates, who had already arranged travel and accommodations, expressed frustration over the logistical and financial repercussions of the cancellation. Karna Kone from Côte d’Ivoire, who was slated to speak on digital censorship, lamented the lost opportunity to address pressing issues that threaten the safety and rights of individuals across Africa.
Chioma Agwuegbo, director of TechHer in Nigeria, articulated the broader implications of such cancellations, stating, “These constraints silence voices and weaken ecosystems working to protect fundamental human rights.” The conference was intended to serve as a vital platform for sharing insights and solutions to ongoing challenges, particularly regarding sexual and reproductive health rights.
The Role of Geopolitical Pressures
Speculation surrounding the motivations for the cancellation has suggested potential pressure from China, especially given that several delegates from Taiwan were expected to attend. The venue for the conference had also been provided by Chinese donors. This development has raised alarm bells regarding the influence of foreign powers on national policies in Zambia, particularly as the country gears up for a critical electoral period.
Sibongile Ndashe, a South African human rights activist, warned that such cancellations could set a dangerous precedent for the future of civil society gatherings in the region. “If this becomes normalised, it will be increasingly difficult for human rights groups to convene, harming those who are already marginalised,” she said.
Why it Matters
The cancellation of RightsCon 2026 is emblematic of a worrying trend where governments increasingly suppress civil society and limit dialogue on human rights issues. This incident not only undermines Zambia’s international reputation but also highlights the importance of safeguarding spaces for open discourse, particularly in regions where such discussions are vital for progress. As countries grapple with the implications of digital technology on human rights, the ability to convene and share knowledge becomes ever more crucial. The stifling of these conversations poses a significant threat not only to Zambia but to the broader movement for human rights across the continent and beyond.
