The RightsCon team is looking for volunteers to support the 14th iteration of our global summit, RightsCon 2026, taking place 5–8 May 2026 in Lusaka, Zambia, and online.
If you’re interested in human rights and technology and are available to join us in person in Lusaka, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to - and connect with - a diverse, global community of activists, technologists, policymakers, and civil society leaders.
Volunteering at RightsCon is an excellent way to gain hands-on event experience, build professional connections, strengthen your CV, and deepen your understanding of critical digital rights issues shaping Africa and the world.
As an official RightsCon 2026 volunteer, you’ll receive:
We look forward to welcoming volunteers who are passionate, curious, and excited to help make RightsCon 2026 a success.
Overview and Volunteer Responsibilities
Each year, our volunteers play a critical role in bringing RightsCon to life. For RightsCon 2026 in Lusaka, volunteers will be supported by a Volunteer Team Lead, who will help assign shifts, answer questions, and match you with roles you’re excited about and confident taking on.
Volunteer responsibilities may include:
- Event set-up and tear down;
- Room and hallway management (Q&A help, wayfinding, ushering);
- Customer service information;
- Event logistics support (check-in desks, info desk);
- Backstage operations (stage management team, speaker escort).
While we would love to accommodate volunteers from around the world, we are unfortunately unable to provide accommodation or travel stipends to Lusaka, Zambia.
The volunteer application window will close on March 31. All applicants will receive an email outlining next steps - including details of virtual volunteer training sessions - following the close of applications.
For more information about volunteer responsibilities or the application process, please contact rightscon@accessnow.org
