Over 5000 people from 150 countries and 750 organizations and institutions were expected to attend RightsCon in Lusaka, Zambia from today until Friday. This would have been the first time that a country in Sub-Saharan Africa hosted the event. RightsCon is a bi-annual global conference that addresses urgent challenges on technology and human rights. But according to the organizers, foreign interference from China has now led to its postponement. This coercive pressure clearly indicates a growing pattern of Chinese authorities abusing their influence over governments to silence dissent and restrict open dialogue - particularly those of individuals that the Chinese state sees as a threat. This is censorship, and a direct attack on freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly. State-driven intimidation must face consequences. Amnesty International strongly condemns any efforts by China to exert pressure and shut down public debate. We call on the Zambian government to transparently disclose the full reasoning behind the cancellation of RightsCon. All states must support the event organiser Access now in securing an alternative venue to ensure the conference takes place this year.