### RightsCon Canceled in Zambia Over Digital Freedoms Concerns **Access Now**, the organization behind **RightsCon**, announced the cancellation of the event scheduled to begin May 5 in Lusaka, Zambia. The decision came after the Zambian government raised concerns about the conference's focus on digital freedoms. "It is with heavy hearts that we share: RightsCon will not proceed in Zambia or online,” **Access Now** stated in its announcement. The cancellation left thousands of delegates en route or already in Zambia facing unexpected disruption. ### Government Justification and International Reaction Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science hinted at the cancellation, citing incomplete security clearances and concerns about the conference’s “dialogue.” Minister Felix Mutati stated that additional time was needed to align preparatory processes with national procedures. The government claims the event is merely postponed, but the feasibility of rescheduling given financial constraints within the human rights community remains uncertain. **RightsCon** typically draws over 5,000 human rights advocates and academics from more than 150 countries. Secretary for Information and Media Thabo Kawana stated the cancellation was “necessitated by the need for comprehensive disclosure of critical information relating to key thematic issues proposed for discussion.” **ARTICLE 19**, a freedom of expression advocacy organization, suggested that pressure from foreign governments influenced Zambia's decision. Reports indicate that the presence of Taiwanese delegates potentially speaking against China at a venue funded by the Chinese government may have been a factor. The **Mulungushi International Conference Center**, where the event was to be held, received a $30 million grant from China. ### Concerns Over Freedom of Expression in Zambia The Zambian government has faced criticism for its stance on freedom of expression. Last year, legislation was enacted that human rights advocates claim restricts free speech and enables government surveillance. **Freedom House** has labeled Zambia as “partly free,” noting instances of jailed critics for online speech. David Kaye, a former United Nations Special Rapporteur, condemned the cancellation as a “serious attack on civil society.”