Croatia introduces audio guides, home ballot for disabled citizens

The State Electoral Commission of Croatia (SEC) has also prepared an audio recording with voting instructions for the local elections, intended for voters with physical disabilities, those who are illiterate, and voters unable to access polling stations.

The SEC reminds voters that in certain circumstances, it is possible to deviate from the principle that every voter must vote in person. In such cases, another person may vote on behalf of the voter, based on their authorization and instruction, CE Report quotes HINA.

A voter who, due to blindness, visual impairment, hand disability, or illiteracy, cannot vote independently may come to the polling station with another person who will, according to their instruction and authorization, mark the number in front of the list or the name of the candidate the voter wishes to vote for.

A voter who, due to serious illness, immobility, or disability, cannot access the designated polling station, but wishes to vote in the local elections on May 18, may notify the competent electoral commission no earlier than three days before the election or notify the polling committee on election day no later than noon.

If the voter is unable to notify the commission or the polling committee independently, another trusted person may do so on their behalf. Every voter who notifies the commission in a timely manner will be allowed to vote at their home address, within the jurisdiction of the polling station.

If, despite all efforts, a person with a physical disability is unable to access the polling station but arrives in front of it and expresses the wish to vote, the chairperson of the polling committee will appoint two members to assist that person in voting outside the polling station.