Impact •• The MoU signed between DPOs and JCE led to a forum where access issues can be discussed. •• For the first time, deaf Dominicans were able to learn about the electoral process from the JCE’s daily TV program because sign language interpretation was included in every broadcast. •• Disability-specific questions were included in the national observers’ list used across the country. •• A national disability law was passed in February 2013. The political platform and forum, developed and conducted via this project, were contributing factors in its passing. The new law acknowledges the Dominican Republic’s CRPD commitments and strengthens the National Council on Disability by creating regional and provincial offices. •• The JCE now has a point person responsible for disability inclusion, the Deputy of Elections. Recommendations Project implementers found the following aspects key to the success of the activities: •• Involving people with different types of disabilities in the design and implementation of the project. After using the plantilla to vote, a man casts his ballot. Section 6 •• Recruiting persons with disabilities for leadership positions, such as project managers, election observers, temporary EMB staff and trainers. •• Establishing partnerships between DPOs, EMBs, political parties and election observation groups. •• Providing specific guidance to government authorities and civil society on how they can be more inclusive. •• Identifying an advocate inside of the EMB who has the will and political clout to champion disability inclusion and accessibility. Equal Access: How to Include Persons with Disabilities in Elections and Political Processes 73