IFES’ Election Access Observations identify and describe barriers that affect the electoral participation of persons with disabilities. During each observation, members of organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) trained by IFES visit pre-selected polling places with a questionnaire to evaluate the site, interior, staff, and resources provided. Observation questionnaires are tailored to each country, often integrating legal accessibility standards, though they share many common strands of inquiry: Are pathways, entrances, and spaces easily and safely navigable for all? Are accessible voter materials available? Are staff prepared to offer assistance while maintaining voter privacy?
