The 14th edition of the RightsCON which was scheduled to be held in Lusaka, Zambia between 5-8 May has been cancelled just a couple of days before starting.
From defending equality, privacy, and freedom online, to advancing human rights frameworks for emerging technologies like Al, to fighting internet shutdowns with the #KeepItOn coalition; and many other movements, RightsCON holds an annual summit on all things human rights in the digital age.
The Summit brings together researchers, advocates, journalists, lawyers, technologists, policymakers, amongst others to have important conversations and strategise on digital rights.
The 2026 program was set to cover the full spectrum of digital rights, from the urgent to the visionary including freedom of the media, internet shutdowns, Al & emerging tech, governance & elections, business & human rights, justice & litigation, digital security, online hate & violence, surveillance and activism tactics.
RightsCon 2026 was set to mark the summit’s first time in Southern Africa – a region with a fast-growing and vital digital rights community and would have aligned with UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Day taking place in Lusaka (May 4-5).
The cancellation was announced on April 29 via their official Instagram page. “It is with heavy hearts that we share: RightsCon will not proceed in Zambia or online. We understand this news is deeply upsetting for our community and while we know everyone has questions, our goal right now is to notify you of the event’s status because many of you have imminent travel plans. We do not recommend registered participants travel to Lusaka for RightsCon,” the statement read.
The organisation acknowledged the support they have received since making the decision to not proceed with the summit and promised to communicate further information soon. “Over the last 48 hours we have experienced an overwhelming surge of support from civil society, government representatives, sponsors, and our community as a whole. For this, we wholeheartedly thank you.“
