ANAKOKA, Namasiku2026-07-032026https://research.unilus.ac.zm/handle/123456789/707Bachelor of Laws - Research ReportThis thesis was a critical analysis on the legal framework governing data protection and cyber security in Zambia, drawing lessons from international standards. The purpose of this study was to assess the adequacy, coherence and alignment of the Data Protection Act no.3 of 2021 and Cybersecurity Act no.3 of 2025 with international standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Budapest Convention and the Malabo Convention. The objectives of this study include examining the legal framework on cybersecurity and data protection in Zambia, the extent to which these pieces of legislation align with international standards and lastly the need for alignment of the local legislation with said international standards. The methodology of this research was as follows; the research was a qualitative mode of research as data was obtained from statutes, reports, internet sources as well as articles. The major findings of this research were that that is some partial convergence with international benchmarks but persistent divergence in institutional autonomy, procedural safeguards and operational clarity. The misalignment undermined individual rights, national security and economic development while full harmonization would enhance resilience, investor confidence, cross border cooperation and digital innovation. It further identified shortcomings with the current legislation like the absence of emerging cybercrimes and an ambiguity in the scope, consent overrides and inadequate enforcement mechanismsenThesis