Zambia Cancels Human Rights Summit: Free Speech Under Threat
Zambia has effectively cancelled RightsCon 2026, a major human rights and technology summit planned for Lusaka. Human Rights Watch warns this threatens free expression and raises concerns about possible Chinese government interference.
The Zambian government has postponed RightsCon 2026. This decision effectively cancels the important summit. Human Rights Watch remains very concerned about this news.
RightsCon is a major global conference. It focuses on human rights and technology. The 14th edition was planned for Lusaka, Zambia's capital. It was scheduled for May 5 to 8, 2026.
On April 29, the Zambian government made a statement. They said postponement was necessary. The government wanted more information about planned discussion topics. The technology minister also spoke about the decision. He mentioned 'pending administrative issues' needing resolution first.
Human Rights Watch is worried about free expression. They are also concerned about the right to assembly. These are important rights for everyone. This includes LGBTQ+ people in Zambia and across Africa.
RightsCon brings together activists and journalists. It welcomes human rights defenders from around the world. LGBTQ+ rights are regularly discussed at this summit. Many African LGBTQ+ activists looked forward to this event.
Human Rights Watch raised another significant concern. They believe Chinese government interference may be involved. China has strong influence in Zambia. This influence may affect decisions about free speech events.
Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema has previously spoken about human rights. He presented himself as a democratic leader. This cancellation raises serious questions. Many people now doubt his human rights commitment.
LGBTQ+ rights in Zambia remain severely restricted. Same-sex relationships are still illegal there. Events like RightsCon provide important safe spaces. They allow activists to meet and share information freely.
The cancellation is a significant setback. Civil society groups are deeply disappointed. Many organisations had already planned their participation. Now they must find alternative meeting and organising methods.
Human Rights Watch calls on Zambia to reverse this decision. They want the government to respect free assembly. The world is watching how Zambia handles this situation. LGBTQ+ communities and human rights defenders need these spaces to stay safe and visible.