Published: June 2025

In April 2025, Zambia’s Parliament enacted two laws that could undermine online freedom of expression in Zambia: the Cyber Crimes Act, 2025, and the Cyber Security Act, 2025.

The laws give authorities broad powers to intercept electronic communications, create criminal and administrative penalties that could chill online expression, potentially undermine the right to use encryption and VPNs, and more.

ICNL has prepared two short briefers that summarize five important things to know about each Act. They are available for download here and here.

These briefs are produced for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice or substitute for legal counsel. Laws may change, and interpretations of local law may vary.