Barrier-free elections: A call for improvement in Carinthia!

Barrier-free elections: A call for improvement in Carinthia!

With the upcoming referendum on wind power, Carinthia is facing important challenges in terms of accessibility. Martin Kahlig, the disability advocate, highlights that the wording of the questions and the lack of information in plain language could pose potential obstacles for people with learning difficulties. “If you research the referendum, you won’t find any information in easy language,” says Kahlig. This situation could result in many affected people being excluded from voting as they are unable to obtain information or cast their vote due to complexity and lack of accessibility ORF reports.

Another key problem is the accessibility of polling stations. While some electoral districts in Carinthia already have to offer a barrier-free polling station, there are no comprehensive regulations that guarantee basic accessibility. Kahlig calls for concrete measures and points out that the national electoral law will require accessibility of polling stations from January 1, 2028. Until then, special aids such as templates for people with visual impairments and the possibility of bringing trusted people along for support are essential steps towards improving the situation. Kahlig also emphasizes the importance of postal voting as an important alternative for people with mental illnesses or mobility limitations who have difficulty getting to the voting booth.

Help for those affected

The management of the AMB in Carinthia, represented by Mag. Isabella Scheiflinger, and other specialists such as Martin Kahlig are in direct contact with the affected citizens. They offer support and information about the individual needs of people with disabilities in the context of the upcoming vote. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the voices of all citizens and removing possible hurdles, which is important for a fair and inclusive election AMB Ktn can be read.