The 5th edition of the Conference on Human Rights in the Digital Age in the Democratic Republic of Congo (HakiConf) will take place in Kinshasa from November 28 to 29, 2024, marking a new phase in the discussion of digital rights issues in Central Africa.
HakiConf, a flagship event in the region, has become a crucial platform for discussions on challenges related to internet access, freedom of expression, privacy, and the protection of personal data. Since its inception in 2018 in Goma, this conference has brought together civil society actors, political leaders, private businesses, and human rights activists around key issues in the digital transformation era.
This year, the central theme of the discussions will focus on the intersection of technology and human rights, with particular emphasis on the digital rights of people with disabilities. This is a highly relevant issue, as the Democratic Republic of Congo, like other African nations, seeks to regulate digital usage in a context where access inequalities and the risks of digital surveillance are pervasive. The event aims to be a meeting point for public sector actors, parliamentarians, diplomats, international organizations, human rights defenders, and digital experts. The discussions will address, among other topics, issues of inclusivity in access to technology and the protection of Congolese citizens’ personal data. It will also offer an opportunity for participants to share experiences and discuss solutions suited to local realities.
Digital rights, including freedom of expression online, the regulation of personal data, and the promotion of accessible and secure internet, will be at the heart of the exchanges. Moreover, this edition will highlight the specific challenges faced by people with disabilities, who are often excluded from technological advances, and explore how public policies can better integrate this population into the digital society.
Although the event will take place in Kinshasa, its reach is international. Delegates from various countries, as well as representatives from major international organizations, are expected to enrich the discussions and share best practices in digital governance and respect for fundamental rights in the digital environment. The conference thus represents a unique opportunity to promote human rights-respecting digital governance in a country where challenges are numerous, but where opportunities are also considerable.
HakiConf 2024 is also a call to action for all stakeholders, both public and private, to join the discussions and contribute to advancing digital rights in the DRC. Companies and organizations interested in partnership or sponsorship opportunities are invited to get involved to support this noble cause, which is essential for the country’s digital future. The HakiConf 2024 conference will thus be a key moment for the DRC, a country at the heart of Africa’s digital transformations, which must now reconcile technological progress with the protection of its citizens’ fundamental rights. It will be a unique opportunity to collectively reflect on a just and inclusive digital future.
By kilalopress
