Zambia has announced the cancellation of the RightsCon 2026 summit, the world’s largest conference dedicated to human rights and technology, just days before its commencement in Lusaka. The government cited a misalignment with “national values” as the reason for this abrupt decision, which has raised concerns about censorship and the suppression of civil society.
Sudden Cancellation Raises Eyebrows
Originally scheduled for 5-8 May, RightsCon 2026 was expected to draw over 2,600 participants, including activists, technologists, scholars, and policymakers. The conference aimed to tackle pressing issues related to human rights in the digital arena—such as online hate speech, internet shutdowns, artificial intelligence, surveillance, and misinformation—at a time when rights related to democracy, gender, and sexual orientation are facing heightened challenges globally.
However, Thabo Kawana, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Information and Media, announced last week that the summit would not proceed, asserting that the gathering did not align with Zambia’s national interests and policy priorities.
Allegations of External Influence
Reports from local media have suggested that external pressures, particularly from China, may have played a role in the government’s decision. This speculation arises partly from the fact that the conference was set to take place in a venue donated by China and that several delegates from Taiwan were expected to attend. The cancellation has been perceived by some as a strategic move to avoid diplomatic friction.
Linda Kasonde, a prominent Zambian lawyer and civil society advocate, has voiced strong disapproval of the government’s actions. She remarked, “When the current administration came into power, they were seen as champions of the rule of law and democracy. What we are witnessing now is a gradual erosion of freedoms, particularly concerning expression and assembly.” Kasonde also noted that the timing of the cancellation may be linked to the forthcoming general elections in August 2026, during which the government may seek to consolidate its power.
Impact on Civil Society
The abrupt cancellation of RightsCon has sparked outrage among human rights defenders, who argue that it represents a troubling trend of silencing legitimate discourse. Access Now, the New York-based organisation that organises the conference, expressed disappointment over the unilateral decision, describing it as indicative of “transnational repression” that restricts civil society’s operational space.
Most delegates had already made travel arrangements, with many incurring significant costs. Karna Kone from Côte d’Ivoire, who was set to participate in discussions on digital censorship, lamented the lost opportunity for vital dialogue. He remarked, “It’s not just a financial loss; it’s a loss of the chance to address urgent issues affecting our communities.”
Chioma Agwuegbo, director of Nigeria’s TechHer, highlighted the importance of RightsCon as a platform for collaboration and problem-solving among organisations tackling critical challenges. “These constraints silence voices and weaken the ecosystems working to protect fundamental human rights, including the safety and dignity of women and girls online,” she stated.
A Precedent for Suppression
The cancellation has implications that extend beyond the immediate disappointment of the attendees. Sibongile Ndashe, a South African human rights activist, warned that if such cancellations become commonplace, they could severely undermine the ability of human rights groups to convene and advocate for vulnerable populations. She pointed out that restrictions on civil liberties disproportionately affect those without power.
Martha Dimitratou, director of Repro Uncensored, noted the irony of shutting down a conference aimed at enhancing rights and participation in digital spaces. She said, “It is deeply ironic that a conference dedicated to strengthening rights is being shut down in this way.”
Why it Matters
The cancellation of RightsCon 2026 serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights and freedom of expression in Zambia and beyond. It reflects broader global trends where civic spaces are increasingly restricted, often under the guise of national interest or security. As nations grapple with the complexities of digital rights and governance, the ability to convene, debate, and organise is crucial for the advancement of civil liberties. The implications of this cancellation are far-reaching, signalling not only a setback for Zambia’s international reputation but also a concerning precedent for future dialogues on human rights and technology worldwide.
