Political participation of people with disabilities in the EU

Summary:

The opportunity to be involved in political life is at the heart of what it means to live in a democracy, whether by standing for elected office, joining a political party, or following political news in the media. People with disabilities are active citizens who are keen to participate given the right opportunities. However, legal, administrative, institutional and accessibility barriers can still prevent them from taking part in elections. To nurture democratic societies in which all members can participate fully, the United Nations (UN) and the European Union are striving for full inclusion of people with disabilities. Through its Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the UN promotes the political participation of people with disabilities. Through its Charter of Fundamental Rights, the EU guarantees each and every citizen the right to vote and stand as a candidate in elections to the European Parliament and the right to vote and stand as a candidate in municipal elections. The European Commission's 2021 2030 strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities commits the EU and its Member States to making those rights a reality. With the European elections fast approaching in June 2024, the European Parliament is renewing its commitment to ensuring the equal participation of people with disabilities in this major European political event. This updates a briefing published in May 2023.

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