Political Participation of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs): The Barriers and Measures for Inclusive Electoral Process

 

Abstract

The right of persons with disabilities to take part in the political system at all levels, specifically in the electoral process is of paramount importance. However, in many countries, governance systems or political systems in general are not inclusive, meaning that persons with disabilities are usually excluded from political participation on an equal basis with other non-disabled persons. In many cases, they are even denied the right to vote or to contest for elections as a result of stigmatization and stereotypes, legal or regulatory policy barriers as well as inaccessible facilities in the electoral or political process. Therefore, this article analyzed and discussed the barriers to political participation of PWDs, the measures for inclusive electoral process, and the role of key actors in promoting inclusion of PWDs in the electoral process.

Keywords: Disability, Inclusion, Electoral Process, Political Participation, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

1. Introduction

The World Health Organization (WHO) and World Bank estimates 15% of the world’s population (approximately one billion people) as having a disability. Persons with disabilities (PWDs) are the world’s largest minority group, with disability rates steadily increasing due to an aging population, conflict, natural disasters, accidents, and a rise in chronic health conditions. The disability community remains largely excluded from political participation and is underrepresented in the political system.  Institutional barriers, inaccessible facilities, stigma and stereotypes, including the beliefs that PWDs are incapable of contributing to society, continue to present significant barriers to PWDs in exercising their rights, including the right to participate politically (National Democratic Institute [NDI], 2019). 

Political participation is one of the major aspects of democracy as it accords one the right to express their views concerning everything and decisions that affect them. It entails activities of individuals or citizens intended to influence public policies and political outcomes. These activities include political party affiliation, voting, standing for elections as a candidate or to hold office in government or political party, public consultations and petitioning the government (Hix, 2005).

Therefore, Political participation is a fundamental right and must be enjoyed by every citizen including persons with disabilities. The importance of citizen’s participation in the political process cannot be overemphasized. Political participation is a fundamental right in every democracy as well. In democracies, the inclusion of citizens in the political process is a measure of a country’s level of democratic growth. Democracy is said to have deepened if it provides for the political inclusion of persons with disabilities. Participation in political life enables PWDs to contribute to the decision-making process and also serves as a basis for inclusion in other aspects of society. When PWDs participate in the political system their voice is heard and reflected in policy making and decision-making. It is, therefore, necessary to include PWDs in the political process. That is why, the right to political participation of persons with disabilities is enshrined in various international and regional charters, conventions or treaties as well as national disability acts (Golding, 2010). 

In developing democratic countries, persons with disabilities experience marginalization, deprivation and exclusion from engaging in social and political activities and are classified among the political dependents in society. It is reported that in the political process, participation of persons with disabilities is low in most developing and under-developed countries. PWDs rarely contest as candidates for political positions in political governance. Even at local or district level, the political participation by PWDs is limited because of several barriers (Sackey, 2014). Furthermore, persons with disabilities in highly developed democratic countries are equally confronted with barriers that hinder their participation in the political process. In America for instance, problems of mobility, illness, low educational and income levels are identified as factors that negatively affect the participation of some PWDs. It is reported that in some parts of the USA, PWDs continue to encounter barriers to exercising their voting rights (Hall & Alvarez, 2012).

In short, Participation in political and public life is a critical element of socially inclusive development, along with the realization of human rights. In the case of persons with disabilities, participation in the political system enables one to take part and have a voice in decisions that affect oneself and one’s community and country. Such participation is an important means of overcoming exclusion and discrimination and dismantling other barriers frequently faced by persons with disabilities. While the right to participate in politics and political process is well-established in many human rights laws, persons with disabilities are frequently denied their right to political participation in a variety of ways and for a variety of reasons, usually as a result of direct or indirect discrimination. For example, stereotypes regarding disability often lead to discrimination against persons with disabilities in decision-making processes generally and in the specific processes of voting, contesting for political positions, or participating in public outreach initiatives by political parties. Obstacles faced by persons with disabilities often include combined aspects of legal or policy, physical, institutional and informational barriers, among others (Hall, 2012).

2. Conceptual Clarification

2.1 Political Participation

There is no universally accepted definition of the concept of political participation. However, political participation is conceptualized based on the context and scholar’s choice of explanation. Therefore, according to Anyaele (2003), political participation can be explained as the process of voluntary involvement of the people in the political activities of their country. By that, it means when people take part in choosing their rulers and also involve in decision making in the government of their country. In view of Dibie (2008), political Participation is described as the process whereby persons get themselves involved in the political activities and in the decision-making of their country. Likewise, according to Oyediran et al (2011), political participation refers to the interests, activities, and involvement of the people in the running of the government. The activities and involvement take place at levels of government and in many different ways. Political participation is now considered a part of civic duty, like paying tax. This implies that citizens have an obligation to participate in politics, just as they have an obligation to pay tax. 

Furthermore, According to Hix (2015), the political participation takes various forms which includes, among others:

1. Voting in Elections,

2. Contesting Elections,

3. Belonging to Political Parties, 

4. Supporting to Political Parties,

5. Supporting Candidates for Elective Posts,

6. Holding Positions in Political Parties, 

7. Holding of Public or Political Offices,

8. Holding Political Appointment, 

9. Attending Political Rallies,

10. Taking Part in Political Campaigns,

11. Sponsoring of Political Parties,

12. Taking Part in Political Discussions, 

13. Supporting or Against A Government Policy. 

2.2 Electoral Process

The concept electoral process can be explained as a procedure or system through which the citizens of a particular democratic country elect their rulers or representatives into different political offices or positions in government. Likewise, the electoral process includes the conditions and procedures for the nomination of candidates for elective posts. It also entails all the rules and regulations of elections (Dibie, 2008).

According to Sackey (2014), the modern electoral process involves the following characteristics, among others:

1. Independent and impartial electoral body;

2. Nomination of candidates by political parties;

3. Constant and periodic elections;

4. Universal adult suffrage;

5. Periodic voters registration;

6. Regular review of voters register and public display of voters lists;

7. Secret ballot system;

8. Delimitation of country into constituencies;

9. Period for political parties to campaign for votes;

10. Political education about the electoral system and political rights of the citizens;

11. Independent and impartial judiciary capable of handling election cases and petitions.

2.3 Disability and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)

National Democratic Institute (NDI) (2019) utilizes the UNCRPD definition of disability which states that “Disability is an evolving concept and that disability results from the interaction between persons with impairments and attitudinal and environmental barriers that hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others”. This definition by the UN fits disability into the bio-psychosocial context of understanding disability, therefore, perceiving disability not only as a medical condition but putting into perspective the human rights issue that arises as a result of the social and environmental barriers. The UNCRPD further states that “PWDs include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which, in interaction with various barriers, may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.” This UNCRPD definition represents a shift in thinking around disability from the “charity” and “medical” models, to the “social” model. The social model indicates that disability sits at the intersection of environmental, institutional, and attitudinal barriers and exists, not because of impairment, but as a result of the limitations and barriers posed by society. The social model shifts the responsibility of inclusion from the individual to society, underscoring the concept that barriers imposed by society are the true source of disability. 

3. Perspectives About Disability 

According to the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) (2019), throughout history, there have been different views on disability. Although there are many perspectives (models) explaining disability and persons with disabilities. Therefore, the  four major models are: charity model, medical model, social model and human rights model. 

 

3.1  Charity Model

The charity model of disability focuses on the individual, and tends to view people with disabilities as passive victims or objects of pity who need help, and whose impairment is their main identifier. The proponents of this model have a belief that persons with disabilities are suffering or helpless, that they need help and that they deserve pity and charity.

3.2 Medical Model

The medical model also focuses on the individual and sees disability as a health condition, an impairment located in the individual. It assumes that by addressing the medical ailment this will resolve the problem. The proponents of this model have a belief that disability is a medical problem that should be managed solely by health care professionals and that the goal should be to reduce or cure the disability, so that the person can appear as “normal” as possible.

3.3 Social Model

The social model of disability developed as a reaction to the individualistic perspectives of the charity and medical models. The proponents of this model have a belief that disability is created by the social environment, which excludes people with impairments from full participation and inclusion in society as a result of attitudinal, environmental and institutional barriers. Likewise, the social model places emphasis on adapting the society to include and accommodate people with impairments by changing attitudes and regulatory policies as well as reforming laws to remove barriers for disability inclusion.

3.4 Human Rights Model

This model sees people with disabilities as the central actors in their own lives as decision makers, citizens and rights holders. As with the social model, it seeks to transform unjust systems and practice. The proponents of this model have a belief that persons with disabilities are equal to any other person, that they have the same human rights as anyone else and that governments should protect these rights. 

4. International Legal Frameworks on Political Participation of Persons with Disabilities

The right to participate in the political system is a well-established principle of international human rights law. It was first set out in Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and further elaborated in Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees to all citizens the right and the opportunity, without unreasonable restrictions, to take part in the conduct of public affairs directly or through freely chosen representatives; to vote and to be elected at genuine periodic elections; and to have equal access to public service. Similarly, the political rights of PWDs have been further delineated in a series of international and regional human rights instruments. Among them, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) is the first to elaborate the right to participate in political and public life in the context of disability (Hofmeister & Grabow, 2011).

4.1 Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) (1948)

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the United Nations in 1948. Among other rights, the UDHR notes that all people have the right to a voice in government. Article 21 affirms that “everyone has the right to take part in the government of his [or her] country, directly or through freely chosen representatives” and that “everyone has the right of equal access to public service in his [or her] country. 

4.2 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) (1966)

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) is a UN treaty that was adopted in 1966. The Article 25 of the ICCPR states that “Every citizen shall have the right and the opportunity, without any of the distinctions mentioned in Article 2 of the ICCPR and without unreasonable restrictions: (a) To take part in the conduct of public affairs, directly or through freely chosen representatives; (b) To vote and to be elected at genuine periodic elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret ballot, guaranteeing the free expression of the will of the electors; (c) To have access, on general terms of equality, to public service in his country. 

4.3 United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) (2006)

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) recognises the importance of political inclusiveness and provides a set of guidelines based on which participation of PWDs could be enhanced in political and public life. This provision is made in Article 29 of the UNCRPD which guarantees the political rights of persons with disabilities. It notes that states should ensure the right of persons with disabilities to “stand for elections, to effectively hold office and perform all public functions at all levels of government, facilitating the use of assistive and new technologies where appropriate.” Article 29 also specifies that states actively promote “an environment in which persons with disabilities can effectively and fully participate in the conduct of public affairs, without discrimination and on an equal basis with others, and encourage their participation in public affairs,” including in “the activities and administration of political parties.

Furthermore, The Article 29 of the UNCRPD requires State Parties to guarantee that persons with disabilities have political rights, as well as the opportunity to enjoy them on an equal basis with others. The UNCRPD specifies certain measures – although it does not limit State Parties to these measures alone - to be taken to ensure that persons with disabilities can effectively and fully participate in political and public life on an equal basis with others, including the right and opportunity to vote and be elected. These include:

1. ensuring that voting procedures, facilities and materials are appropriate, accessible and easy to understand and use; 

2. protecting the right of persons with disabilities to vote by secret ballot;

3. protecting the right of persons with disabilities to stand for elections and to hold office and perform all public functions at all levels of government, including facilitating the use of supportive technologies where relevant; and

4. ensuring equal and effective access to voting procedures and facilities in order to exercise their right to vote, including provision of reasonable accommodation.

5. Barriers to Political Participation of Persons with Disabilities

According to Mussarat (2014), despite the international legal standards and frameworks supporting the right to political participation, persons with disabilities still encounter numerous barriers to the political participation process. Persons with disabilities in developed and developing countries encounter some barriers in participating in the political process. Therefore, barriers that impede effective participation of PWDs in the political process can be categorized into attitudinal barriers, institutional barriers, communication barriers, architectural/physical barriers, educational and financial constraints.

5.1 Attitudinal Barriers 

One of the most widespread obstacles for persons with disabilities in political life is a common belief that they are either uninterested in politics or that they are unable to participate in politics. Both men and women with disabilities are rarely encouraged to participate in politics at any level, whether as voters, party members, candidates, observers or electoral officials. When they do express an interest in voting or contesting for political office, they are usually actively discouraged by their friends, family and/or community members (Baker, 2010).

In many developing democratic countries, negative perceptions, attitudes and beliefs about the capabilities of persons with disabilities by members of society, has contributed to their exclusion from national and local politics. Likewise, in most societies, persons with disabilities are viewed in traditional ways as they are looked down upon as individuals incapable of making any effective political contributions. Thus, negative perceptions about disability in turn discourage PWDs from participating in politics. Their abilities are doubted and consequently most of them are not interested in the political life of their countries (Sackey, 2014).

5.2 Physical (Architectural) Barriers

Physical barriers are major obstacles to the participation of persons with disabilities in political activities. Consequently, there are no doubts that physical barriers would serve as obstacles to political participation of persons with disabilities. In many developing countries PWDs are experiencing challenges of inaccessible physical environment, constraining their movement and limiting openings for them to participate in politics. For example, in some countries, access to the voter registration centers is problematic for some persons with visual impairments and persons with physical disabilities. Equally, they may have difficulty accessing polling stations for voting during elections. That is, they may face accessibility challenges on the day of the election and may not be able to vote at all. Therefore, It is reported that, in many developing democratic countries, the voter registration centers and polling stations are not accessible to accommodate the needs of people with physical disabilities. For instance, polling stations in rooms or classes with small entrances may not accommodate people using wheelchairs and voting boxes placed on high tables. Similarly, in most cases, places where political meetings and conferences hold are not friendly accessible for persons with physical disabilities; consequently, this hinders their attendance and participation (Lantman, 2016).

5.3 Institutional Barriers

In most developing democratic countries, persons with disabilities are experiencing challenges in political participation as a result of policies, regulations, instructions, strategies or practices and even laws associated with the political system. For example, in some countries, the educational qualification is clearly stated by laws as one of the requirements for contesting political positions or holding public offices. This limits political participation of many people including persons with disabilities. Similarly, some political parties specify certain regulations and instructions for standing as a candidate. For instance, purchasing nomination forms which sometimes are very expensive. This hinders the political participation of some people with disabilities who want to contest for elections (Mussarat, 2014).

Furthermore, in some cases, there is lack of legal and regulatory policy frameworks on political participation of PWDs such as lack of policies or laws protecting and promoting political participation of PWDs, lack of the right of PWDs to secret ballot during elections, lack of laws guaranteeing freedom of expression of the will of PWDs as voters and electoral candidates, lack of mechanisms addressing elections complaints by PWDs, lack of policies within the political parties to provide some certain percentage of leadership positions and candidacy to PWDs, lack of policies or laws to provide some certain percentage of sits to PWDs in parliaments and political appointments in executive cabinets (Lantman, 2016).

More importantly, in many countries, the legal framework contains provisions that restrict or prohibit a citizen with a disability from participating in political life, including voting and candidacy processes. For example, provisions may contain terms such as “inability”, “illness”, “incapacity” or “competency” that could potentially be used to exclude or disqualify candidates with disabilities (Mussarat, 2014).

5.4 Communication Barriers

Persons with disabilities are rarely included in outreach electoral information or political campaigns. Even when they are targeted, the communications methods are often both inaccessible and non-inclusive. This can pose several challenges for persons with disabilities. For example: If a video advertisement for a political candidate is shown on television or online, people who are deaf or hard-of-hearing will struggle to understand it if captions or sign language interpretation is not provided; and similarly, most of the constitutions, policies and manifesto of political parties are documented in print formats which become difficult for party members with visual impairment to read (Mensah, 2008).

In the view of Sackey (2014), some of the PWDs, especially those with hearing impairments, encounter language barriers which limit their ability to partake in politics. Most of the information on national issues is not presented in accessible formats which meant they could not follow what was happening in the country. Also, Similarly, communication barriers made it difficult for those with visual impairment to exercise their voting rights. For example, information on electoral materials like ballot papers is not accessible in Braille format to people with visual impairments; thus making it difficult for them to understand the party name and symbol. Also, participation in the political process includes attending political campaigns, rallies and conferences as well as attending political debates. But, Some PWDs may experience obstacles in participating in these political activities. For example, people who are deaf may face communication challenges at the centers where political rallies, campaigns, conferences or debates are being held. Candidates with hearing impairments found it difficult to interact with the public and participate effectively in political debates or rallies as there were no sign language services or assistive technology provided. In a few places where sign language interpreters were available, they were not appropriately trained or certified. Similarly, in most political conferences organized by a political party or political discussions and symposium organized by civil societies, people with visual impairments who are in attendance may not get access to printed materials like papers and documents distributed to attendees; consequently, this hinders their participation. 

5.5 Educational and Financial Constraints

Educational constraints faced by PWDs lead to little or no understanding of the political system which includes the basics of democracy, the approaches of decision-making process and policies, structures and branches of government, as well as mechanisms for creating legislation. As a result, it becomes more difficult to effectively engage in political life, and to build up the experience and qualifications needed for leadership roles. Similarly, with little resources or with lower incomes, the expenses involved in running of political activities for contesting elections can be a particular challenging (Mensah, 2008),

According to Lamprianou (2013), illiteracy and financial resource constraints have also been identified as obstacles to PWDs active participation in political activities. In many developing democratic countries, effective participation in politics is generally influenced by education and available financial resources of which is the key. Therefore, education and income play significant roles in enhancing active participation in politics. Most of the persons with disabilities, however, are less educated and also not financially equipped for the cost involved in active politics, especially for contesting elections. Furthermore, Hix (2015), explained that, many evidence from various studies reveal that educated people are more likely to participate in politics, so it is clear that lack of education or lower level of education is a barrier to political engagement among PWDs. Several studies from developing democratic countries indicated that many persons with disabilities  are functionally illiterate, affecting their awareness of their rights and their willingness to participate in politics. Some studies also highlighted that, the political campaigns in the political system of many countries are very expensive as it involves significant financial resources used for printing candidates’ banners or producing TV and radio adverts of candidates’ campaigns, among others. This hinders PWDs with low incomes from attempting to contest elections into any political positions. 

6. Measures for  Inclusive Electoral Process 

According to Hall & Alvarez (2012), there are a variety of measures that can be undertaken to give effect to the UNCRPD’s provisions on political participation of persons with disabilities. In the specific context of electoral process, the following measures are of paramount importance:

6.1 Revising Electoral and Relevant Legal Frameworks for Disability Inclusion 

A first step towards implementation of the right of PWDs to participate in political life is the review of relevant legal and policy frameworks to ensure their coherence with the UNCRPD. This requires elimination of any restrictions on the rights of persons with disabilities to vote or to participate in other aspects of political life. Restrictive electoral processes or voting laws are a concern in all countries of the world, particularly in terms of their frequent application to persons with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities, who are usually deprived of legal capacity. Furthermore, Article 29 of the UNCRPD provides that persons with disabilities are to be guaranteed political rights and also the opportunity to enjoy them. This means that, in addition to removing legal restrictions on the right of persons with disabilities to vote or be voted for, State Parties must take measures to ensure that persons with disabilities can make use of that right by revising their domestic laws and policies which hinders political participation.

6.2 Developing Inclusive Voter Education and Information

Ensuring access for persons with disabilities to voter education and information requires accommodation and various modifications. For example, illustrative or pictorial information may be useful for a broad range of potential voters, including persons with intellectual disabilities and persons with hearing impairments. In preparing accessible information, other types of differences in communication and information needs should also be taken into account to accommodate the diversity of the electorates. Such variables can include language, literacy, urban versus rural populations, cultural traditions and gender, among others. 

Civic, social and political education should portray persons with disabilities as part of the electorate and as politicians. Public awareness campaigns should highlight the political rights of persons with disabilities. Education campaigns or programmes should also target children so that they are exposed to positive images of persons with disabilities as engaged citizens. This will help engender positive views on the role that persons with disabilities can and should play in society. In addition to promoting civic education, ensuring inclusive education for children with disabilities will further support their development as engaged citizens, and potentially as voters or elected office holders. 

6.3 Training The Electoral Commission Officials on Accessible Elections

Electoral officials or electoral management bodies in general have an important role to play in ensuring election accessibility for persons with disabilities. In many cases, however, the electoral officials may lack training and awareness on how to conduct inclusive elections. The following measures can support electoral commission to carrying out their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the UNCRPD:

1. development of standards and guidelines for the accessibility of registration and polling centers;

2. ensuring that site selection of registration and polling centers takes into account all aspects of accessibility for persons with disabilities;

3. providing training for electoral officials on accessibility issues facing persons with disabilities in the voting context;

4. providing electoral information and voting materials in accessible formats, such as braille and in easy to read and understand forms;

5. allowing voters to be assisted by a person of their own choosing and, in addition, make available to voters guides and professional sign language interpreters to facilitate accessibility at polling centers; and

6. utilizing accessible technology, such as accessible websites and electronic voting machines that are fully accessible to persons with disabilities

6.4 Developing Accessible Balloting Procedure 

In order to guarantee the right to vote, governments or electoral commissions in particular, must provide accessible Balloting procedures. In many developing democratic countries, efforts have been made to make polling stations and ballot papers accessible through the development of tactile ballot guides. The tactile guides are made of paper and are produced at low cost. The guide allows a ballot paper to be placed into a folderlike guide with cut out windows that the voter uses to enable him or her to know where to place the required thumb print or mark. Tactile guides have been effectively used in developed democratic countries like the USA, UK, France and elsewhere to help secure the right to vote in secret and independently. In these instances, materials on the use of the guides are developed, poll workers are trained in their use, and outreach is undertaken to ensure that voters with visual impairments are aware of its availability.

A good tips for accessible balloting procedure include the following:

1. Development of tactile ballot guides for use by voters who are blind or partially sighted to facilitate unassisted and secret ballot casting,

2. Accommodation to allow marking of the ballot paper with toe or elbow prints for voters without arms,

3. Pictorial instructions for voters who are deaf to understand balloting procedures,

4. Easy-to-read instructions for balloting,

5. Placing ballot boxes on a low table for individuals using wheelchairs,

6. Ensuring that individual voting booths are accessible for individuals using wheelchairs, crutches or other supportive devices so that they can access the booth. 

6.5 Ensuring Civil Society Participation

In order to promote a fully inclusive political process, it is essential for the electoral commission to consult with civil society organizations, particularly Disabled People Organizations (DPOs). The DPOs are perhaps best placed to serve as resources on accessibility with regard to electoral processes and public decision-making more generally. The DPOs should be regarded as expert resource organizations for:

1. training of election officials;

2. designing accessible voting procedures;

3. conducting voter education on issues of election access; 

4. developing election monitoring tools that are inclusive of disability issues; and 

5. designing accessible websites and election materials.

6.6 Ensuring Accessible Electoral Complaints Systems

Full enjoyment by persons with disabilities of the right to participate in political life requires accessibility to electoral complaint mechanisms. In instances where persons with disabilities feel they have experienced discrimination on the basis of disability in the electoral context, they must be able to file a complaint with such a body or mechanism. In particular, individuals with disabilities must be able to challenge restrictions and limitations on political and electoral rights, including in relation to seeking political office, supporting political parties and candidates, and registration and voting itself.

6.7 Election Monitoring and Observation for Inclusive Elections

Election monitoring and observation can be undertaken by a variety of stakeholders. Observers may include domestic observers from local civil society organizations, representatives of political parties, journalists, oversight and regulatory agencies, and national human rights institutions (NHRIs). Additionally, international observers representing international governmental or non-governmental organizations may also take part in election monitoring and observation.

In order to design an inclusive approach for election monitoring and observation, persons with disabilities must be included at all stages of monitoring efforts, as well as in the development of monitoring tools. Thus, materials developed to guide electoral monitoring processes should incorporate a disability dimension. This may include, for example, electoral observer reference guides and checklists and electoral observer reporting forms that provide specific guidance on disability access. Questions that can be included in an election observation form include, among other things:

1. Physical accessibility: are the polling places accessible to a person using a wheelchair or someone with a mobility impairment? Were there physical barriers to reaching the polling place (e.g., stairs)? Are there barriers inside the polling place (e.g., limited space for movement)? Are the bathrooms accessible? 

2. Assistance: Are voters with disabilities and other voters requiring assistance allowed to be assisted by a person of their choice?

3. Harassment/impermissible exclusions: Are there instances of disability-related harassment, especially in relation to voters with mental disabilities and/or arbitrary exclusion based on election official perception of mental disability. 

6.8 Raising Awareness for Attitudinal Change 

Awareness raising about persons with disabilities through public campaigns and enlightenment to combat negative stereotypes against them in the political system. Engaging civil society organizations, persons with disabilities and organizations of persons with disabilities as well as influential individuals in such outreach activities. These campaigns and enlightenment should focus on raising awareness among the public on the needs and abilities of persons with disabilities to contest for elections into any political positions. 

7. Role of Key Actors In Promoting Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities In Electoral Process

Globally, the low participation of PWDs in the political process continues to remain a matter of concern. The issue of disability political inclusiveness is gradually gaining momentum worldwide. This is because various international, national and local stakeholders are committed to working in various capacities to ensure that PWDs are actively involved in the political process or electoral process specifically. Therefore, the role of electoral management bodies, the role of political parties, the role of media and the role of NGOs are examined.

 

7.1 The Role of Electoral Management Bodies 

In democratic countries, the electoral body is a commission charged with the responsibility for organizing and conducting elections. It is seen as an independent and impartial body which has legal and constitutional backing to carry out its functions related to elections.  Thus, the electoral management body is responsible for the organization and management of elections. It formulates regulatory policy frameworks for the smooth running of elections. Registration of voters, screening of candidates, provisions of electoral materials, recruitment of electoral officials and their training, voters education and enlightenment among others are duties of any electoral body (Dibie, 2008).

In some countries, the electoral body ensures that people with disabilities are involved in the electioneering process as electoral officials. Qualified PWDs took up roles as electoral observers. Similarly, it  provides accessible electoral materials for PWDs, it disseminates information and voter education for PWDs in accessible format, it prepares accessible polling stations for PWDs. Therefore, the electoral body is a key institution of democracy that is responsible for all election-related issues, as it is working to ensuring the inclusiveness of PWDs in the political process and it works with Disabled People Organizations (DPOs) and various NGOs to ensure that measures are put in place to enable PWDs to participate in the democratic process especially in exercising their rights to vote (Opokua & Saka, 2016).

Hall & Alvarez (2012) outlined the following as roles of electoral bodies in promoting political participation of PWDs:

1. Review the electoral laws and policies to identify and eliminate discriminatory provisions against persons with disabilities;

2. Engage the government and other stakeholders on political issues to effect legal reforms that will facilitate the realization of the right of PWDs to political participation;

3. Develop a database for PWDs who vote and stand as candidates to be able to serve them well and encourage other stakeholders to do the same;

4. Develop and disseminate civic and voter education on political participation of PWDs;

5. Make electoral materials and polling stations accessible to PWDs;

6. Make a provision for the employment of PWDs with the relevant qualifications to work in their organizations;

7. Train their staff and electoral observers on disability issues and how to provide support to PWD

7.2 The Role of Political Parties 

Political parties also have a significant role to play in the political process. Political parties have been described as the “gatekeepers” of democracy. Without political parties, a modern representative democracy is not conceivable. This is because political parties form the backbone of every democratic state. They serve as the grounds for the active involvement of citizens in political activities, for recruitment and selection of leaders to run the affairs of a state. To fully achieve the aim of democracy as a “government of the people, by the people, and for the people”, politics requires among other things that citizens participate actively in political interactions and in all activities of the political party to which they belong. Political parties nominate candidates for elections by various means such as primary elections, thus facilitating political participation. Also, political parties promote political participation through their direct communication with the people and lobbying for support or votes in exchange for some good that the public needs. More importantly, in some countries, most political parties are committed to ensuring political inclusiveness of PWDs (Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, 2011).

Therefore, political parties play a critical role in participation of PWDs in the political processes. In most cases, electoral candidates are nominated or determined through political party processes such as primary elections. The inclusion of PWDs and their role in political parties is an important step towards the realization of their right to political participation. Likewise, political parties are also influential in shaping national interest, priorities and the extent to which PWDs can play a role on national and local issues. 

According to Hofmeister & Grabow (2011), through the research, it is reported that political parties in many countries have data on the number of PWDs in their membership rolls, number of PWDs in their leadership positions and those elected or stood for elections. Furthermore, political parties can play an important role in ensuring inclusive political outreach and education. In many countries, the coalitions of political parties that represent the interests of different social groups recognise that persons with disabilities are an important pool of potential votes for political parties. Many of them adapt their messaging to include sign language and braille as medium of communication to accommodate persons with hearing and visual impairments. 

Hall & Alvarez (2012) outlined the following as roles of political parties in promoting political participation of PWDs:

1. Review party laws and policies to identify and eliminate discriminatory provisions against persons with disabilities;

2. Make a deliberate decision to promote political participation of PWDs by including PWDs in positions of leadership and as electoral candidates;

3. Make a quota for PWDs as a step towards the realization of political participation of PWDs;

4. Identify and prioritize issues of concern to political participation of PWDs;

5. Promote democratic practices in their parties to accommodate PWDs;

6. Develop a database of PWDs in their political parties and in positions of leadership as well as electoral candidates;

7. Promote election of candidates with disability.

7.3 The Role of Media

The role of the media in political participation is also critical. The media disseminates information, creating awareness and influences public decisions on political issues. There is little that the media is doing to cover issues of concern to PWDs in pursuit of their right to political participation. The media in many countries can play a role on issue framing and positive image of PWDs as leaders and electoral candidates. However, in some countries, the media has fallen trap to the negative stereo-type attitude of failing to recognise the right of PWDs to political participation by ignoring coverage of PWDs on public and political issues. Therefore, the media can also play a role in championing the right of PWDs to political participation. But, the media in many developing democratic countries is passive about coverage of PWDs who stand as candidates or get elected at local and national levels. While, in developed democratic countries, the media is active about coverage of PWDs contesting for political posts (Lamprianou, 2013).

Hall & Alvarez (2012) outlined the following as roles of media in promoting political participation of PWDs:

1. Provide coverage of PWDs who vote and stand for elections;

2. Promote positive image of PWDs as leaders and electoral candidates;

3. Undergo training on voter and civic education and reporting political issues of concern to PWDs;

4. Avoid negative stereo-type projections of PWDs as people who cannot represent themselves and others;

5. Focus attention on issues of political participation that concern PWDs.

7.4 The Role of NGOs

In any democratic country, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) or Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) including the Disabled People’s Organizations (DPOs) play an important role for political participation of persons with disabilities. In some countries, NGOs or CSOs and even DPOs carry out several programmes in the form of political summits and workshops, advocacy and awareness campaigns for the right of PWDs to political participation. They organize voter education programmes for people with disabilities. NGOs/CSOs and DPOs are committed to propose regulatory policy frameworks which will accommodate PWDs in the electoral process, and sometimes they are being engaged or consulted in formulating policies or laws that promote the political participation of persons with disabilities (Baker, 2010).

Hall & Alvarez (2012) outlined the following as roles of NGOs, CSOs and DPOs in promoting political participation of PWDs:

1. Lobby for legislative reforms to protect and promote the right of PWDs to political participation;

2. Advocate for the right of PWDs to political participation through meaningful engagement of key stakeholders such as political parties, electoral bodies and the government officials.

3. Identify PWDs who are interested in running for elections and encourage them;

4. Provide training and support services to PWDs who want to stand for elections and those elected;

5. Provide training to political parties, journalists and government agencies about the importance of political participation of PWDs;

6. Lobby for a quota system and/or reservation of seats for PWDs in parliament and executive cabinet;

7. Advocate for PWDs to hold key strategic decision making positions in electoral bodies and political parties;

8. Lobby for more media coverage of political participation of PWDs and elections candidates with disabilities;

9. Develop and share messages that are disability-sensitive for civic and voter education;

10. Develop and promote cross-party platforms for cooperation on political participation of PWDs;

11. Lobby for more opportunities to be given to PWDs to serve in organizations and associations established to address the needs of PWDs;

12. Lobby for government and donor funding of initiatives that promote political participation of PWDs;

13. Lobby for support of international actors on the right of PWDs to political participation.

8. Conclusion

Political participation is one of the major aspects of democracy as it accords one the right to express their views concerning everything and decisions that affect them. It entails activities of individuals or citizens intended to influence public policies and political outcomes. These activities include political party affiliation, voting, standing for elections as a candidate or to hold office in government or political party, public consultations and petitioning the government. However, in practice, the political participation of PWDs remains an illusion in many countries. PWDs experience many barriers to political participation ranging from voting procedures, discriminatory laws, policies and lack of supportive structures in political institutions and political parties. 

Besides legal barriers, PWDs in many developing democratic countries experience problems of accessibility with respect to political participation. Elections materials and polling stations make it difficult for PWDs to exercise their right to equitable participation in the electoral process. Furthermore, the right of PWDs to be elected also continues to be neglected by most African Countries. To a large extent, perceptions of most African societies is that PWDs can only be represented, but cannot represent themselves and other sections of the population. In some instances, PWDs are viewed as people in need of medical attention and objects of charity assistance, hence discriminating against them. 

Political participation of PWDs include: addressing attitudinal barriers, removing legal and administrative barriers to political participation; making voting procedures, facilities and election materials more accessible; expanding opportunities for participation in political life; increasing 

awareness of the right to political participation of PWDs; collecting data to measure political participation of PWDs for future inclusive electoral policy frameworks. Hence, the inclusion and political participation of PWDs is vital as it recognises them as being equal to the able-bodied and also ensures that PWDs have a voice in society regarding decisions that affect their lives and the general public.

More importantly, the right to political participation of PWDs is enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) (2006). The UNCRPD lays a strong foundation for the recognition of political rights of PWDs. Since its inception, there has been a slight paradigm shift in some countries, especially developing democratic countries to promote and guarantee political participation of PWDs. Furthermore, various institutions such as the electoral commission, the political parties, the media, and the NGOs are also instrumental in the promotion of political participation of PWDs. 

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