Bridging the Digital Divide – Young Indonesians with Disabilities Translate Virtual Learnings into Community Action

To accommodate restrictions in Indonesia due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and the Indonesian Disabled People’s Association (PPDI), a local partner, adapted the flagship Engaging a New Generation for Accessible Governance and Elections (ENGAGE) political and civic leadership course into a virtual program for young Indonesians with disabilities. Participants learned civic education concepts, strengthened their leadership skills, and participated in community projects and internships. As a result of the ENGAGE course, participants prepared recommendations to make electoral processes more accessible for Indonesia’s election management bodies, making a tangible impact in advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities to participate in democratic processes.