Zambia Human Rights

Human Rights Concerns

As a stable democracy with a small population and a history of reform, Zambia demonstrates a respectable human rights record. Despite much national progress, however, several issues must be addressed to improve human rights here. Zambia is experiencing the double edged sword of rapid economic expansion. Even though Zambia's national economy grew over six percent last year,(The Post.com) Zambia still has unacceptably high levels of poverty (70% of population according to the latest Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper for Zambia), which most often produces deleterious consequences for human rights.

There are several areas of concern for human rights being monitored in Zambia this year.

The National Constitutional Conference upheld the death penalty article to be included in the new Zambian constitution to be voted on this year in referendum.

Freedom of the press is a recurring concern in Zambia. From censorship of publications to allegations of the physical harassment of journalists, protecting the free flow of information in Zambia remains a top priority.

Direct foreign investment in Zambia's burgeoning natural resource and consumer markets, allow ample space for corporate abuse of individual rights in the areas of labor and consumer protection and an exploitation of the lagging regulatory framework in the country.

Political Situation

The next general election will be held in 2011. This is a tripartite election meaning the President, Parliament, and Local Government positions will be decided. It is believed President Banda will run for office again (at age 74), marking twenty years of rule for the Movement of Multiparty Democracy party. Concerns of election violence are being raised. This year, a new constitution, the result of a three year conference, will be put to public referendum.