Avocats Sans Frontières France, ASF France has strongly condemned the abrupt cancellation of RightsCon 2026 in Lusaka, describing the move as a violation of fundamental rights and a setback for civic space in Africa.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the organisation expressed “deep concern” over the Zambian government’s decision to withdraw support for the summit just days before its scheduled commencement on May 5, 2026.
Authorities reportedly cited “administrative and security clearances” as reasons for the cancellation.
According to Access Now, the convener of RightsCon, the decision followed diplomatic pressure from the People’s Republic of China over the planned participation of Taiwanese civil society groups.
ASF France said the development undermines key international protections, including the rights to freedom of assembly and association under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
It noted that more than 2,600 in-person participants and 1,100 virtual attendees from over 150 countries were affected.
The organisation also warned that the cancellation sets a “dangerous precedent” where foreign influence could determine which civil society engagements take place on African soil, potentially undermining sovereignty and democratic participation across the continent.
RightsCon 2026 was set to be the first edition of the global digital rights summit hosted in Sub-Saharan Africa, offering Zambia an opportunity to position itself as a leader in digital governance and human rights.
ASF France further highlighted the economic and reputational implications of the cancellation, noting losses for local businesses including hotels, airlines, and small enterprises in Lusaka.
The group called on Zambian authorities to provide a full public explanation and ensure that future gatherings are protected from external interference.
It also urged regional bodies such as the African Union and the Southern African Development Community to reaffirm commitments to safeguarding civic space.
Reaffirming its solidarity with Access Now and affected participants, ASF France said it remains committed to advancing policies and legal frameworks that protect fundamental freedoms both online and offline.
