International law recognises the rights of all citizens to take part in the conduct of public affairs, to vote and be elected, and to have access to public service. This is based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and numerous subsequent international conventions. These rights are recognised as fundamental and lie at the heart of democracy. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) recognises that these rights apply equally to people with disabilities.
Article 29 of the CRPD outlines the rights of people with disabilities in their participation in political and public life. It requires that people with disabilities are guaranteed political rights and that appropriate measures are adopted to ensure that they enjoy these rights on an equal basis with others. These rights are essential for ensuring equality of opportunity for people with disabilities and their full and effective political participation and inclusion in society. Through exercising these rights, people with disabilities can assert their individual independence, which includes the freedom to make their own choices, vote and the right to be recognized as people before the law.
This key list presents information about the inclusive political participation of people with disabilities. The resources feature general information, as well as regional and national case studies along with news articles that highlight good practices and barriers to political rights. It was reviewed in collaboration with The International Foundation for Electoral Systems.
We welcome your suggestions: please send comments or suggested additions to sourceassistant@hi-uk.org.
Selected resources
ADA checklist for polling places
Equal access : how to include persons with disabilities in elections and political processes
Zero project report 2015 : independent living and political participation
Assessment of election access barriers in Guatemala
Case of Alajos Kiss v Hungary
Electoral participation of electors with disabilities : Canadian practices in a comparative context
Adult ward should have right to vote : court
Not a disabled friendly electoral system
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