The morning session featured a panel discussion focused on electoral integrity, freedom of expression and the media, gender equality, youth engagement, the protection of digital rights, and inclusive governance. Opening remarks were delivered by the Ambassador of the Czech Republic, Jiří Kyrian, who recalled the Czech experience with democratic transformation after 1989 and emphasized that democracy, human rights, and development are inseparable and require constant care, dialogue, and active citizen participation. The keynote address was given by former Attorney General Musa Mwenye, who assessed the current constitutional reform process in Zambia, warned against populism, and highlighted the need to protect journalists, minorities, and digital rights.

The importance of the event was underlined by wide media coverage. On 16 September 2025, News Diggers reported in detail on the opening speeches. On 17 September 2025, The Mast published an article entitled “Protect democracy, rights, urges Czech envoy,” quoting Ambassador Kyrian’s key messages on safeguarding human rights, media freedom, and the necessity of active civic engagement. The event also received positive attention on social media, where photographs and key excerpts from both main speeches were widely shared.

An evening networking cocktail provided an opportunity to continue informal discussions and strengthen contacts among journalists, civil society activists, students, and diplomats.

The celebration of the International Day of Democracy thus not only highlighted the universal values of freedom and equality but also contributed in a practical way to strengthening democratic debate in Zambia, which is preparing for the 2026 elections. Through this initiative, the Czech Republic reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to supporting democracy, human rights, and an open society not only in Europe but also in its African partner countries.