About IFES and NDI International Foundation for Electoral Systems The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) supports citizens’ right to participate in free and fair elections. Our independent expertise strengthens electoral systems and builds local capacity to deliver sustainable solutions. As the global leader in democracy promotion, we advance good governance and democratic rights by: • Providing technical assistance to election officials • Empowering the underrepresented to participate in the political process • Applying field-based research to improve the electoral cycle IFES has extensive experience in leading initiatives around the world that promote electoral and political enfranchisement of persons with disabilities. IFES collaborates with a cross-section of disabled persons’ organizations, as well as civil society groups and governments. This includes applying expertise to global tools such as www.ElectionAccess.org – the first online global resource on political participation of persons with disabilities. In recognition of its efforts, IFES received the InterAction Disability Inclusion Award in 2011. Since 1987, IFES has worked in over 135 countries – from developing democracies, to mature democracies. For more information, visit www.IFES.org and www.ElectionAccess.org. National Democratic Institute The National Democratic Institute (NDI) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, nongovernmental organization that responds to the aspirations of people around the world to live in democratic societies that recognize and promote basic human rights. Since its founding in 1983, NDI and its local partners have worked to support and strengthen democratic institutions and practices by strengthening political parties, civic organizations and parliaments, safeguarding elections, and promoting citizen participation, openness and accountability in government. With staff members and volunteer political practitioners from more than 100 nations, NDI brings together individuals and groups to share ideas, knowledge, experiences and expertise. Partners receive broad exposure to best practices in international democratic development that can be adapted to the needs of their own countries. NDI’s multinational approach reinforces the message that while there is no single democratic model, certain core principles are shared by all democracies. The Institute’s work upholds the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It also promotes the development of institutionalized channels of communications among citizens, political institutions and elected officials, and strengthens their ability to improve the quality of life for all citizens. For more information about NDI, please visit www.NDI.org. Equal Access: How to Include Persons with Disabilities in Elections and Political Processes VII