The first day of the National Consultative Forum on Cyber Laws, hosted by the Zambia Free Press Initiative and Young Women in Action, brought together young people from the Copperbelt, Eastern, and Southern provinces to reflect on the state of digital safety and freedoms in Zambia.

The conversations went beyond presentations participants shared personal challenges, raised critical questions, and actively engaged in group discussions aimed at unpacking the real-life impact of cyber laws.

Key Discussion Highlights:

🔹 Understanding the Amended Cyber Laws
Participants expressed concern over the limited public awareness of Zambia’s amended cyber laws. Many were unaware of the specific provisions or how these laws apply to everyday online behavior. There were concerns that vague wording in the law could lead to misuse, particularly when it comes to regulating expression on social media. The group emphasized the need for more youth-friendly educational resources and better legal support for those affected.

🔹 Digital Hygiene and Online Protection

There was a general acknowledgment that most young people lack knowledge about protecting themselves online. Issues like using weak or repeated passwords, falling for fake links, and unknowingly exposing personal data were raised. Participants called for more community-based digital literacy initiatives and urged schools and youth centers to introduce basic cybersecurity education.

🔹 Freedom of Expression in the Digital Space

Participants highlighted a growing sense of fear when expressing opinions online, especially on political or social issues. Many felt that online platforms are no longer safe spaces for open discussion. Concerns were also raised about the harassment faced by female content creators and activists. The group discussed the need to strike a balance between security enforcement and safeguarding free expression, calling for policy review and improved public communication on rights and protections.
The forum created a safe and constructive space for young people to reflect on their experiences and explore solutions that center their voices. It was clear that cyber safety is no longer just a technical issue it’s a human rights concern.

The event was made possible by our coalition partners Chapter One Foundation, Bloggers of Zambia, Agents of Change Foundation, and Disability Rights Watch.

This forum is part of the ongoing Claim Your Space project, supported by the Danish Minorities Centre for Human Rights & Development.

The interactive sessions continue tomorrow, with practical tools, and youth-led advocacy expected to take center stage.