Disability Rights and Elections

Brief event description: A BRIDGE Workshop for ECP staff and CSOs working with ECP.

IFES Pakistan, through USAID assistance, implemented a three-day Disability Rights and Elections modular workshop for Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) staff and members of the Civil Society Organizations as part of ECP’s Gender and Disability Electoral Working Group. The workshop was led by three IFES facilitators: Pavel Cabacenco, who joined online; Kulsoom Akhtar, Muhammad Aslam Brohi; and two Election Commission of Pakistan facilitators, Asif Ali Yaseen and Shabir Khan. The workshop attended by 21 participants (13 men and 8 women) was held from 27-29 November in Peshawar, KP.

Objectives:

·       To build the understanding of the participants bout the rights of Persons with Disabilities and promote their inclusion in Pakistan’s electoral processes

·       To identify barriers in all phases of the electoral process that can limit the access of persons with disabilities to participate in political and public life.

·       To identify solutions for dismantling the barriers and tools to analyze the electoral structure and procedures and develop strategies to promote access for persons with disabilities.

·       To provide a networking opportunity for the election stakeholders (Electoral Management Body (EMB), PWD organizations, advocacy groups).

Key sessions of the workshop:

The workshop was designed in a way that the first day was allocated to the concept clarity about the subject, where an overview of disability rights and international laws and documents on disability were discussed. The second day was dedicated to thematic issues like the national legal framework, electoral process, election cycle, barriers, and obstacles. The third day was more focused on the strategies, recommendations, and solutions to the problems faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The workshop provided a chance for the participants to participate in mock polling and discuss the role of stakeholders in working for accessible and inclusive electoral processes.

The workshop combined theory and practice to enhance participants’ understanding of guaranteeing electoral rights of people with disabilities and creating opportunities for their active participation in society’s political and social life.

Using an interactive and case-based approach, the workshop presented information alongside practical exercises that highlight existing barriers for people with disabilities throughout the electoral cycle. It also reviewed specific practices from different countries worldwide and encouraged participants to propose solutions to electoral challenges.

Participants provided feedback on the workshop, highlighting the following aspects:

Contents and delivery:

• The workshop provided comprehensive and relevant information tailored to the needs of participants. The topics were well organized and covered key areas, making it easy to follow and understand. Case studies and practical examples added depth and real-world applicability to the content.
• The facilitators were highly engaging, encouraging active participation and discussions. The use of interactive tools and activities kept the sessions dynamic and enjoyable. The pacing was appropriate, ensuring enough time for both learning and Q&A sessions. Technical aspects, such as visuals and handouts, were clear and supportive of the presentation.
• Additional time for group discussions or networking could enhance the overall experience.

Logistics:

·       The workshop was highly appreciated for being well planned and organized. Access to the venue for individuals with disabilities was thoughtfully planned, with appropriate accommodations available. The workshop schedule was well-structured, balancing sessions, breaks, and networking opportunities effectively. Additional printed materials or handouts were organized and distributed efficiently.

Overall, participants felt that the training was a crucial step towards promoting disability inclusion within electoral processes. They highlighted the importance of strategies discussed for integrating disability considerations into electoral management, emphasizing the impact that small changes can have in fostering inclusivity. 

The pre-and post-assessment results of workshop participants showed a significant increase in knowledge (23%), reflecting the overall effectiveness of the training.

Quote from workshop participants:

“This was my first session on Disability Rights and Elections, and it exceeded my expectations. The workshop was highly inclusive and interactive, creating a safe space for me to share my thoughts and engage meaningfully. It was an eye-opening experience to explore this often overlooked yet critical topic, and I gained valuable insights that I can apply in the future. I sincerely hope that more workshops like this are organized to continue raising awareness and fostering change.”

“The training on disability rights and elections was one of the most enriching experiences I’ve had. It employed innovative methodologies and interactive approaches that made learning engaging and impactful. The in-depth discussions on the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and their mainstreaming in governance and electoral processes were both insightful and thought-provoking. I feel better equipped to contribute toward creating a more inclusive political environment.”