Egypt’s National Council for Disability Affairs and IFES Host International Conference on Electoral Accessibility

The event drew over 180 participants, including senior Egyptian officials, representatives from various organizations, and government agencies. These attendees included the Adviser to the Prime Minister for Electoral Affairs, as well as representatives from the League of Arab States, the Moroccan National Council for Human Rights, and Egypt's High Elections Committee, Presidential Elections Committee, State Information Service, and Ministries of Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Social Solidarity. Conference sessions addressed several key topics, including the protection of persons with disabilities' rights to participate in elections under national and international laws. Discussions also centered on the collaboration between governmental and non-governmental electoral stakeholders to support inclusive elections. Additionally, the conference showcased tools and resources for inclusive electoral management, highlighting international experiences from countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, Guatemala, Morocco, Zambia, and Egypt. Electoral management body (EMB) representatives from these countries delivered remarks and presented case studies on how EMBs have made elections accessible for persons with disabilities. The conference featured presentations of case studies from participating countries, demonstrating how EMBs have implemented accessible elections. These presentations provided valuable resources for EMBs and other groups to make elections more accessible. Participants also engaged in small group discussions to explore ways that EMBs, media, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Egypt can promote the rights of persons with disabilities in the voting process. Furthermore, a simulation exercise was conducted to illustrate potential improvements in accessibility to polling stations. Egypt's National Council for Disability Affairs and IFES aimed to promote inclusive elections and disability rights through this conference. The event served as a platform for sharing knowledge, best practices, and resources related to electoral accessibility. The conference's outcomes and recommendations are expected to contribute to the development of more inclusive electoral processes in Egypt and beyond.