In a surprising move, Zambia has cancelled the upcoming RightsCon 2026 summit, the world’s largest conference focused on human rights and technology, just days before it was set to commence in Lusaka. The Zambian government has stated that the conference did not align with “national values,” a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates and raised questions about freedom of expression in the country.
Sudden Cancellation Sparks Outrage
Originally scheduled for May 5-8, the RightsCon summit was poised to attract over 2,600 participants, including activists, technologists, academics, and policymakers from across the globe. The cancellation was announced by Thabo Kawana, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Information & Media, who cited the need for the event to align more closely with Zambia’s national interests and policy priorities.
This abrupt decision not only disrupts the plans of those who had already begun to arrive but also comes at a time when discussions surrounding digital rights, internet shutdowns, and the implications of artificial intelligence are more crucial than ever. The conference was set to address pressing issues such as online hate speech, surveillance, and the militarisation of technology, particularly against a backdrop of increasing assaults on democratic, women’s, and LGBTQ+ rights worldwide.
Allegations of Political Pressure
Linda Kasonde, a prominent Zambian lawyer and civil society activist, has described the cancellation as a blatant act of censorship, indicative of a broader trend of suppressing legitimate debate within the country. Speculation has arisen suggesting that the decision may have been influenced by external pressures, particularly from China, as several Taiwanese delegates were scheduled to attend, and the venue was provided by a Chinese donor.
Kasonde expressed concern that this action not only undermines Zambia’s commitment to democratic principles but also reflects a deterioration of the rule of law. She linked the timing of the cancellation to the upcoming general elections in August 2026, suggesting that the government is implementing measures to consolidate power ahead of the polls.
“The government has steadily been putting in place laws that make it easier to win and entrench power post-election,” Kasonde noted, adding that the move tarnishes Zambia’s international reputation, especially as the summit was to be the first of its kind held in Southern Africa.
Voices Silenced
The cancellation has been met with dismay from many who were set to participate. Karna Kone, a delegate from Côte d’Ivoire, highlighted the significant logistical and financial preparations undertaken to attend. “Travelling from West Africa is very expensive and requires considerable effort,” he lamented. “This is not just a monetary loss but a missed opportunity to address critical issues.”
Chioma Agwuegbo, director of the Nigerian organisation TechHer, echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the conference’s importance as a platform for organisations to forge solutions to pressing societal challenges. “These constraints silence voices and weaken ecosystems working to protect fundamental human rights, including the safety and dignity of women and girls online,” she remarked.
Notably, many of the topics set to be discussed at RightsCon focused on the online censorship of sexual and reproductive health rights, an area where advocacy is increasingly vital.
A Dangerous Precedent
The implications of this cancellation extend beyond the immediate disappointment felt by participants. Sibongile Ndashe, a South African human rights activist, warned that normalising the cancellation of such conferences could jeopardise the ability of human rights groups to convene in the future. “Restrictions on human rights harm those without power,” she cautioned, highlighting the risks posed to vulnerable communities.
As Zambia positions itself on the global stage, the decision to cancel RightsCon 2026 raises serious questions about the nation’s commitment to human rights and democratic engagement. As Linda Kasonde aptly stated, “It really dents the image of our country.”
Why it Matters
The cancellation of the RightsCon summit serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic spaces in many parts of the world. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the fight for human rights and freedom of expression remains paramount. Zambia’s decision to block this significant gathering not only reflects internal political tensions but also illustrates the challenges faced by civil society in regions where dialogue and dissent are increasingly stifled. In an era where cooperation and discourse are essential for progress, the repercussions of such actions could resonate far beyond Zambia’s borders, potentially impacting global human rights initiatives and the future of digital freedoms.