World Press Freedom Day 2026 Global Conference
April 8, 2026
International Journalism Festival 2026
April 8, 2026
RightsCon 2026 is the 14th edition of the world’s leading summit on digital rights, convening global stakeholders to address pressing issues at the intersection of technology, human rights, and freedom of expression. The event will be held in Lusaka, Zambia, and online from May 5 to May 8, 2026. It marks the summit’s return to the African continent and its first visit to Southern Africa since RightsCon Tunis in 2019.
Purpose and Focus:
RightsCon brings together journalists, human rights defenders, policymakers, technologists, civil society groups, academics, and private sector leaders to explore how digital technologies affect human rights and freedoms. Through panels, workshops, roundtables, and interactive sessions, participants will tackle a wide range of topics, including digital surveillance, censorship, platform accountability, privacy, access to information, and strategies to promote openness in the digital era.
Integration with Press Freedom Dialogue:
RightsCon 2026 will directly follow World Press Freedom Day 2026 in Lusaka, creating opportunities for collaboration between digital rights advocates and press freedom defenders. A partnership between RightsCon and UNESCO aims to bridge discussions on media freedom, civic space, and technological challenges shaping how information is produced and protected in an interconnected world.
Format and Participation:
The summit will be hybrid—offering in‑person participation at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka and online access via the RightsCon digital platform. Programming will include public sessions, private discussions, networking spaces, and a Community Village showcasing projects and innovations from around the world.
Dates:
May 5–8, 2026.
Lusaka, Zambia (Mulungushi International Conference Centre) and online RightsCon 2026.
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