As Malta prepares for the forthcoming elections to select Members of the European Parliament, a critical issue demands attention: the exclusion of individuals with disabilities from exercising their fundamental right to vote. This pressing concern, underscored by the Malta Federation of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (MFOPD), sheds light on the systemic challenges that hinder the full participation of marginalized groups in the electoral process.
In the view of MFOPD, voting rights represent more than just political engagement—they embody the principles of inclusivity and societal empowerment. However, persistent barriers, ranging from inaccessible information to the inability to cast votes in secrecy, continue to marginalize persons with disabilities, depriving them of their voice and agency in shaping the democratic landscape.
The MFOPD’s stance is resolute: the status quo is untenable. Every individual, regardless of disability, deserves the opportunity to elect representatives who will champion their rights and advocate for their interests. This conviction finds resonance in Article 3 of Protocol No. 1 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which unequivocally safeguards the right to free and fair elections conducted through secret ballot.
In response to these urgent challenges, MFOPD issues a clarion call to the Maltese Parliament: prioritize electoral reform and dismantle barriers that impede the full participation of all citizens in the democratic process. This imperative extends beyond mere rhetoric—it requires concrete actions to foster accessibility and inclusivity within electoral practices, ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
As the electoral countdown begins, let us heed the call of MFOPD and reaffirm our commitment to democracy—one that upholds the principles of equality and ensures equal access to the ballot box for all citizens.
#MaltaDaily
