Participation of Individuals with Disabilities in Political Activities: Voices from Jordan

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the participation of individuals with disabilities in political activities in Jordan: a topic on which there is little existing literature despite its capacity to promote successful social integration. Data for this study was gathered by conducting sixteen semi-structured interviews with individuals with disabilities and was then examined collectively using thematic analysis, in the context of related literature and medical and social models of disability. The resulting findings revealed that the most prevalent obstacles that people with disabilities encountered regarding participating in political activities were poor communication, their own negative attitudes towards politics and politicians, and inaccessible physical environments.

“Give Us the Chance to Be Part of You, We Want Our Voices to Be Heard”: Assistive Technology as a Mediator of Participation in (Formal and Informal) Citizenship Activities for Persons with Disabilities Who Are Slum Dwellers in Freetown, Sierra Leone

“…Further, only a few studies have begun to look at the barriers and facilitators which influence the ability of persons with disabilities to actively participate in political and civic life in this context, for example, [ 26 ] looked at the elements that make local politics in Ghana inaccessible to many people with disabilities. The study conducted by [ 27 ] in Cameroon and [ 28 ] in Jordan had also similar aims. However, we found a distinct lack of research to date which has attempted to identify the role that AT plays in facilitating political and civic participation amongst people with disabilities living in informal settlements, nor the implications that AT can have within the wider concept of citizenship and sense of belonging in one’s community.…”

Influence of Political Socialization Agents on Political Participation among Electorate: An Empirical Study in Bauchi State-Nigeria

“…This implies that several factors influence an individual's political participation, including political socialization agents such as family, peer group, religion, media, and political party. These agents refer to the institutions, organizations, and individuals that transmit political knowledge, values, and attitudes to individuals, shaping their political behaviour and participation (Rahahleh et al, 2021). Despite the importance of political socialization agents in shaping political behaviour and participation, few studies have explored their influence on political participation in Nigeria.…”

“…Political participation, is a crucial component of democratic societies, as it allows citizens to engage in the political process, voice their opinions, and contribute to decision-making. However, political participation levels vary across different regions and societies (Rahahleh et al, 2021).…”