Electoral participation of persons with disabilities in Kazakhstan focus of OSCE-supported online seminar

An OSCE-supported six-day online training seminar on electoral rights of persons with disabilities started on 24 August 2020. The event aims to help participants build their capacity to draw up an individual plan on running for elected office.

The training seminar is organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan in partnership with the Association of Women with Disabilities “Shyrak” and involves some 45 persons with disabilities from across Kazakhstan.

Participants will learn from national experts about basic human rights concepts, including the right to personal dignity and non-discrimination, national legislation and related mechanisms for implementation of the active and passive electoral rights of persons with disabilities. Particular attention will be paid to electoral technologies and conducting election campaigns.

An expert from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights will present a session on the international principles and standards for political participation of people with disabilities and related best practices in the OSCE participating States. The event is part of the Programme Office’s efforts to assist the host country in promoting a more inclusive and participatory society.