Zambia cancels world’s largest human rights and tech summit days before start

Zambia has abruptly cancelled the RightsCon 2026 summit, the world’s largest conference on human rights and technology, just days before it was scheduled to begin in Lusaka. The government stated the event did not align with “national values” and needed more time to ensure it matched Zambia’s policy priorities and public interest. Over 2,600 activists, technologists, academics, and policymakers had been expected to attend the conference, which was set to address pressing issues such as online hate, internet shutdowns, AI surveillance, and digital disinformation. The decision has sparked criticism from human rights advocates who view it as censorship and part of a broader crackdown on free expression and civil society in Zambia. Linda Kasonde, a prominent lawyer and activist, described the cancellation as indicative of a slow erosion of democratic freedoms under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration. She linked the move to the upcoming general elections in August 2026, suggesting the government is tightening control over political discourse and public assembly ahead of the polls. Local media reports have also pointed to possible external pressure from China as a factor behind the cancellation. Several Taiwanese delegates were expected to attend the summit, and the venue had been donated by China, a country with strained relations with Taiwan. This geopolitical context adds complexity to the decision and raises concerns about Zambia’s balancing of international relations and domestic policy priorities. The cancellation is a significant setback for Zambia and southern Africa, as it was the first time RightsCon was to be hosted in the region. The event was seen as an opportunity to spotlight digital rights and human rights challenges in Africa, and its abrupt cancellation undermines Zambia’s image as a democratic and open society. The move has drawn international attention to the country’s shifting political landscape and the growing challenges facing civil liberties in the digital age.