Avocats Sans Frontières (ASF) France has strongly condemned the sudden cancellation of RightsCon 2026 in Lusaka, Zambia, describing the move as a violation of fundamental human rights and a significant setback for digital rights dialogue across Africa.
Background of the Cancellation
In a statement released on May 6, 2026, ASF France expressed deep concern over the decision to halt the summit just days before its scheduled start on May 5, 2026. The Zambian government withdrew its support, citing administrative and security clearances, effectively canceling what is regarded as the world's largest gathering on human rights in the digital age. However, the convening body, Access Now, reportedly confirmed that the decision followed diplomatic pressure linked to the planned participation of Taiwanese civil society representatives.
Violation of International Rights
ASF France argued that the cancellation undermines internationally protected rights, including freedom of assembly and association as enshrined in Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Article 11 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights. The organization noted that more than 2,600 in-person participants and 1,100 online attendees from over 150 countries were affected. The development also weakens freedom of expression and sets a troubling precedent for foreign interference in civic engagements on the continent.
Statement from ASF France
“RightsCon serves as a critical forum for activists, journalists, and technologists confronting digital repression. The decision sets a dangerous precedent whereby foreign interference can dictate which civil society gatherings may take place on African soil,” the statement read. ASF France further lamented the economic and reputational impact of the cancellation, stating that Zambia lost an opportunity to position itself as a regional leader in digital innovation, human rights, and open governance. It also cited potential losses to Lusaka’s hospitality, aviation, and small business sectors.
Solidarity and Calls for Action
The organization expressed solidarity with Access Now, the RightsCon team, and affected participants, while commending the conveners for prioritizing community safety and transparency. It called on the Zambian government to provide a full public explanation and ensure that future rights gatherings are free from undue external influence. It also urged the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to reaffirm the need for African states to protect civic space.
Continued Advocacy
Despite the setback, ASF France maintained that advocacy for an open, secure, and rights-respecting internet would continue across the continent, stressing the need for legal frameworks and public policies that uphold fundamental freedoms both online and offline.
