January 23, 2026 • Event Info • 3 min read

January 26, 2026 • Event Info • 3 min read

The RightsCon team is recruiting volunteers to support RightsCon 2026 (May 5–8, Lusaka, Zambia and online). Submit your application by Tuesday, March 31! 

Volunteering at RightsCon is a great way to be part of a global digital rights community, gain practical experience, and connect with people working across multiple sectors, from civil society organizations, international companies, research institutes, foundations, and more.

Why volunteer at RightsCon?

As a volunteer, you’ll be part of the team that makes RightsCon happen. You’ll support participants, help keep the summit running smoothly, and experience the energy of a global convening from the inside.

Volunteers gain hands-on experience working at an international summit. It’s a great opportunity for students, those starting their professional journeys to build professional connections, and anyone looking to get exposure to conversations shaping digital rights in a global setting.

What volunteers receive

• Free admission to RightsCon 2026, including access to sessions and on-site activities
• Training and preparation, including a virtual onboarding session with the RightsCon team
• A volunteer certificate for RightsCon 2026
• Daily on-site support, such as lunch, coffee, and light snacks during your shifts
• Stipend for transport to the venue for volunteer shifts

Volunteer roles

We aim to match volunteers with roles that fit their interests and strengths. Volunteer tasks may include:

• Summit production setup and breakdown
• Room and hallway coordination
• Assisting participants and session organizers
• Supporting event logistics
• Backstage and operations support

Who should apply?

We welcome applications from anyone interested in supporting RightsCon 2026. Due to the nature of this role, priority will be given to volunteers based in Zambia and the region, as well as students and individuals at the early stages of their careers.

Please note that we are not able to provide travel or accommodation support for volunteers.

How to apply

If this sounds like the right fit for you, submit your application by March 31, by filling out our short application form. Our team will be in touch with selected volunteers in April with next steps.

If you have any questions about volunteering or RightsCon more broadly, feel free to contact us at [email protected].

We look forward to working together to make RightsCon 2026 a memorable return to the African continent.

The RightsCon team is recruiting volunteers to support RightsCon 2026 (May 5–8, Lusaka, Zambia and online). Submit your application by Tuesday, March 31! 

Volunteering at RightsCon is a great way to be part of a global digital rights community, gain practical experience, and connect with people working across multiple sectors, from civil society organizations, international companies, research institutes, foundations, and more.

Why volunteer at RightsCon?

As a volunteer, you’ll be part of the team that makes RightsCon happen. You’ll support participants, help keep the summit running smoothly, and experience the energy of a global convening from the inside.

Volunteers gain hands-on experience working at an international summit. It’s a great opportunity for students, those starting their professional journeys to build professional connections, and anyone looking to get exposure to conversations shaping digital rights in a global setting.

What volunteers receive

• Free admission to RightsCon 2026, including access to sessions and on-site activities
• Training and preparation, including a virtual onboarding session with the RightsCon team
• A volunteer certificate for RightsCon 2026
• Daily on-site support, such as lunch, coffee, and light snacks during your shifts
• Stipend for transport to the venue for volunteer shifts

Volunteer roles

We aim to match volunteers with roles that fit their interests and strengths. Volunteer tasks may include:

• Summit production setup and breakdown
• Room and hallway coordination
• Assisting participants and session organizers
• Supporting event logistics
• Backstage and operations support

Who should apply?

We welcome applications from anyone interested in supporting RightsCon 2026. Due to the nature of this role, priority will be given to volunteers based in Zambia and the region, as well as students and individuals at the early stages of their careers.

Please note that we are not able to provide travel or accommodation support for volunteers.

How to apply

If this sounds like the right fit for you, submit your application by March 31, by filling out our short application form. Our team will be in touch with selected volunteers in April with next steps.

If you have any questions about volunteering or RightsCon more broadly, feel free to contact us at [email protected].

We look forward to working together to make RightsCon 2026 a memorable return to the African continent.