The Rural Smiles Foundation expresses deep concern regarding the cancellation of RightsCon 2026 in Lusaka, Zambia.

RightsCon has, over the years, served as one of the world’s most important platforms bringing together civil society, human rights defenders, governments, technologists, journalists, donors, researchers, and grassroots actors to discuss the future of digital rights, civic space, democracy, and technology. The cancellation of such a platform is deeply disappointing, particularly at a time when open dialogue, collaboration, and trust-building are urgently needed across our region and globally.

As an organization working at the intersection of civic space, digital rights, and community protection in Uganda, we recognize the importance of safe and inclusive spaces where civil society actors can exchange experiences, share innovations, and collectively respond to emerging threats affecting democratic participation and human rights.

We were particularly looking forward to contributing to the conversations at RightsCon through the presentation of the SPACEUG Threat Monitoring and Referral Tool a civic-tech initiative supporting the documentation, monitoring, and referral of threats affecting civic actors and communities in Uganda.

The cancellation of RightsCon should remind all stakeholders of the importance of protecting civic space, freedom of association, freedom of expression, and meaningful participation both online and offline. Strong democracies are built through engagement, dialogue, and openness to diverse voices.

We stand in solidarity with the global digital rights and civil society community, including the organizers, participants, and partners affected by this development. We also extend our appreciation to all partners and supporters who had enabled our participation and engagement in the event.

The Rural Smiles Foundation remains committed to advancing civic participation, digital resilience, human rights, and inclusive democratic engagement in Uganda and beyond.