In a shocking move just days before its commencement, Zambia has cancelled the RightsCon 2026 summit, the world’s largest gathering focusing on human rights and technology. The government declared that the conference, set to take place in Lusaka from 5-8 May, did not resonate with “national values,” prompting accusations of censorship and stifling of open dialogue. With over 2,600 participants, including activists, technologists, and policymakers, expected to attend, the cancellation marks a significant blow to Zambia’s international standing.
Official Rationale and International Backlash
Initially, the Zambian administration had expressed support for the RightsCon summit, which aimed to tackle pressing issues such as online hate, internet shutdowns, artificial intelligence, and surveillance. However, Thabo Kawana, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Information and Media, stated last week that the conference would not proceed in order to ensure it aligned with the country’s policy priorities and broader public interest.
Linda Kasonde, a respected Zambian lawyer and civil rights advocate, condemned the decision as a blatant infringement on human rights. “This administration used to stand for the rule of law and democracy,” she lamented. “Now, we are witnessing a gradual erosion of rights, particularly freedom of expression and the right to assemble.” Kasonde suggested that this cancellation could be politically motivated, coming just months before the general elections in August 2026. “As the political landscape shifts, the government has been tightening its grip, creating an environment where dissent is increasingly stifled.”
The Role of International Relations
Local reports have hinted at potential external influences behind the abrupt cancellation, particularly pressure from China. The RightsCon conference was set to take place in a venue donated by the Chinese government, and several delegates from Taiwan were expected to attend—an issue that has historically strained relations between Zambia and China. The sudden withdrawal has raised eyebrows, suggesting that geopolitical dynamics are at play, further complicating Zambia’s international relations.
Kasonde expressed her disappointment, stating, “This was a unique opportunity for the region, the first time RightsCon was being held in southern Africa. It was a chance to showcase our commitment to human rights.” The cancellation, she argues, not only harms Zambia’s reputation but also impedes meaningful progress in the region.
Voices Silenced, Opportunities Lost
The ripple effect of this decision is profound. Many participants had already booked their travel and made financial commitments to attend. Karna Kone, who was slated to discuss digital censorship, described the logistical challenges he faced in arranging travel from Côte d’Ivoire. “It’s a loss of both money and energy,” Kone lamented. “More importantly, it’s a lost opportunity to address critical issues affecting our communities.”
Chioma Agwuegbo, director of TechHer in Nigeria, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the summit’s importance in fostering dialogue on pressing issues. “These constraints silence voices and weaken ecosystems dedicated to protecting human rights, especially for women and girls,” she stated. The cancellation effectively quashes critical conversations around online harassment and the rights of marginalised communities.
Martha Dimitratou from Repro Uncensored pointed out the irony of shutting down a conference dedicated to the very rights that are under attack. “It’s deeply troubling that a platform for advocacy and dialogue is being suppressed,” she argued.
The Bigger Picture: Implications for Civil Society
The ramifications of this cancellation extend beyond Zambia’s borders. Sibongile Ndashe, a prominent human rights activist from South Africa, warned that normalising such cancellations could have dire consequences for civil society across the continent. “If conferences like these are curtailed, human rights groups will struggle to convene and operate,” she cautioned.
Zambia’s government may have struck a blow against what it perceives as external influences, but in doing so, it risks alienating its citizens and the international community.
Why it Matters
The abrupt cancellation of RightsCon 2026 illustrates a troubling trend of censorship and repression in a country that once championed democratic ideals. As the Zambian government tightens its grip on civil society in the lead-up to elections, the implications are profound: the stifling of dialogue not only undermines the fabric of democracy but also poses a significant threat to the basic rights of its citizens. In an era where digital spaces are increasingly vital for advocacy and expression, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights in Zambia and beyond.