Increasing Participation of Persons with Disabilities in Gabon's Democratic and Educational Systems

The U.S. Embassy LIBREVILLE of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a program to support the persons with disabilities in Gabon to participate in the 2025 presidential elections and participate actively in educational settings. Disability rights is a nascent aspect of Gabonese civil society; this project will encourage inclusivity in Gabonese society, improve the participation of marginalized communities in the electoral process, and promote open dialogue between governmental actors and persons with disabilities. Currently, there is very limited public funding for accessibility projects and public advocacy for the rights of persons with disabilities. Limited opportunities exist for persons with disabilities in Gabon. Most struggle to access basic education or gainful employment due to discrimination, lack of access, or lack of targeted outreach. Project activities aim to increase participation of persons with disabilities in the next national elections (expected August 2025), as well as create a cohort of Gabonese able to carry on this work in the future. Proposed project activities will include training on advocacy best practices, coordinating meetings with government officials to propose building code changes and equal access laws, advocating for changes to pensions for persons with disabilities, and developing language requiring government buildings to be accessible to persons with physical disabilities. Other projects will focus on training educators, legislators, and government officials on inclusive habits in classroom, business, and government environments. Participants and Audiences: Persons with disabilities, including women, youth, LGBTQI+ persons, and other intersecting identities. Educators, legislators, human rights advocates, and other members of civil society.