CIVICUS, in collaboration with our esteemed partners at the GEARS Initiative, recently convened civil society actors in Zambia to delve into the intricacies of citizen-led advocacy aimed at expanding civic freedoms through legislative and policy reform. These gatherings provided invaluable opportunities for reflection, learning, and knowledge-sharing among participants. In this blog, Patrick Kaumba, Executve Director of GEARS Initiative, reflects on some of the topics discussed and how the civic space landscape in Zambia has evolved in the past decade.
Over the past decade, Zambia has witnessed a concerning trend of shrinking Civic Space, largely attributed to changes in laws and the constitution. Laws such as the antiquated Public Order Act of 1955, the restrictive NGO Act of 2009, and the more recent Cyber Security and Crimes Act of 2021 have all contributed to limiting the space for civic engagement. Additionally, provisions regarding defamation of the president further exacerbated the situation.
However, amidst these challenges, there have been concerted efforts to strengthen Civic Space in Zambia. One of the key strategies has been the formation of alliances and networks, which have enabled greater impact and improved platforms for engaging with the government. These efforts, coupled with resilient people, accountable practices, finances, and systems, have played a significant role in pushing back against restrictive measures.
Crucially, the positive political will of the new administration has provided a favorable environment for advancing Civic Space in Zambia. The culmination of years of lobbying by local, regional, and international human rights defenders and civil society activists has borne fruit, with the government showing readiness to engage in meaningful reforms.
Key events in this reform process include media statements, engagement meetings with the police and political parties, and media engagements. These activities have served to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and garner support for reform initiatives.
Looking ahead, there remains much work to be done to further strengthen Civic Space in Zambia. This includes advocating for law reforms and constitutional amendments to address restrictive legislation such as the Public Order Act, the NGO Act, and the Cyber Security and Crimes Act. Electoral legal reforms are also crucial to ensure the participation of marginalized groups, including youth, women, and people with special needs.
In addition to legal reforms, sustained public awareness campaigns are needed to educate citizens about their rights and the importance of civic engagement. Monitoring mechanisms and inclusive policy development will help ensure accountability and transparency in governance.
Furthermore, continued engagement with international partners for technical support and capacity building is essential in addressing Civic Space challenges. Collaboration with organizations such as CIVICUS and CHARM has proven invaluable in raising awareness and building the technical capacity of local initiatives like the GEARS Initiative Zambia.
In conclusion, while the challenges to Civic Space in Zambia have been significant, the collaborative efforts of civil society, along with the support of the new administration and international partners, have yielded positive outcomes. By continuing to advocate for reform, raise awareness, and build alliances, Zambia can further strengthen its Civic Space and foster a more inclusive and democratic society.