Story perspectives

Zambia Cancels RightsCon Over Chinese Pressure, Silencing Activists

5/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Zambia’s government cancelled the RightsCon summit in Lusaka after Chinese pressure over Taiwanese delegates.
The cancellation deprives many African and Asian activists of a platform to discuss online harassment and reproductive-health rights.
Côte d’Ivoire delegate Karna Kone lost travel funds and months of visa work because the conference was called off.
Zambian lawyer Linda Kasonde said the decision signals erosion of freedom of expression and assembly.

History

Historical Context

In October 1971 the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 2758, voting 76-35-17 to seat the People’s Republic of China and expel the Republic of China’s representatives. The decision gave Beijing diplomatic leverage that it later used to influence African partners, including Zambia. In September 2024 Zambia cancelled the RightsCon summit in Lusaka after Chinese pressure, echoing the 1971 shift that silenced Taiwan’s voice.

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Story summary

Zambia’s government cancelled the RightsCon summit in Lusaka after Chinese pressure over Taiwanese delegates.
The cancellation deprives many African and Asian activists of a platform to discuss online harassment and reproductive-health rights.
Côte d’Ivoire delegate Karna Kone lost travel funds and months of visa work because the conference was called off.
Zambian lawyer Linda Kasonde said the decision signals erosion of freedom of expression and assembly.

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