On August 18th the meeting of the working group on PWDs issues was held. The Chairperson of the Central Election Commission (CEC) opened a remote meeting. Giorgi Kalandarishvili discussed the needs of voters with disabilities and the activities the election administration implements to promote an equal electoral environment for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

By considering recommendations of non-governmental organizations within the working group, the CEC’s Training Centre already retrained trainers who in turn will detail members of precinct election commissions (PECs) on the services to be offered to voters with disabilities on E-day, according to CEC’s Chairperson.

Information on adapted/accessible buildings is already requested from relevant entities, according to him; the CEC will make public information on mentioned PECs on its webpage. Needs of blind voters and voters with vision impairment, deaf and those with hearing impairment, as well as beneficiaries of support will be considered at the electoral precincts. Giorgi Sioridze, Deputy Chairperson also attended today’s meeting. Mr. Sioridze expressed willingness to work on PWDs issues. Sophio Sitchinava, Head of the Working Group, as well as Head of Coordination, Planning and Reporting Department, coordinated this meeting and provided the Group with information.

The remote working meeting was held via the “Zoom” application and sign language was provided at the meeting.