Amnesty International strongly condemns the Zambian government for open-endedly “postponing” RightsCon – the largest global tech and human rights conference, which was due to start today in Lusaka and online – after allegedly being pressured by Chinese diplomats.

,,,

“The apparent coercive pressure behind the de-facto cancellation of RightsCon is a clear sign of a growing and dangerous pattern of Chinese authorities abusing their power and influence over other governments to silence dissent and restrict fundamental rights, in particular those of individuals the Chinese state deems as a threat", says Sarah Brooks, the China Director at Amnesty International.

"We strongly condemn these acts, which constitute transnational repression. There must be serious consequences for this kind of state-driven intimidation and political bullying."

...

Over 5000 people from 150 countries and 750 organizations and institutions, were expected to attend the event in Lusaka, Zambia and online to discuss pressing issues at the intersection of technology and human rights.

Last year RightsCon was held in Taipei, Taiwan, and co-hosted by the Taiwanese civil society group Open Culture Foundation. Other members of Taiwanese civil society, including E-Ling Chiu, the director of Amnesty International Taiwan, have attended and made presentations at this and prior iterations of RightsCon.

...

“We urge all states to step up and support RightsCon by working with Access Now and the global civil society to secure an alternative venue and ensure the conference takes place this year. This is a critical test of political courage. Standing aside is not neutral, it abandons the thousands of civil society actors and the millions of people worldwide whose rights they serve and protect," says Damini Satija, Amnesty Tech Director at Amnesty International.

...

Web Archive link