Central Elections Committee Unveils Major Accessibility Plan for Knesset Elections

On October 27, 2026, at 7:00 AM, approximately 13,500 polling stations will open across Israel for the 26th Knesset elections. Behind the scenes, the Central Elections Committee is finalizing months of logistical preparations, including tens of thousands of ballot kits, staff recruitment, and technological readiness. This year, a major focus is being placed on a comprehensive accessibility campaign to ensure that voters with physical, sensory, and emotional disabilities can exercise their democratic rights.

Ergonomic Upgrades and Physical Accessibility

Among the physical adjustments introduced for this election cycle is a newly designed ballot slip tray. Developed in collaboration with the Commission for Equal Rights of Persons with Disabilities at the Ministry of Justice, the tray has been widened and made more ergonomic. This allows voters in wheelchairs to easily view and reach the voting slips.

Out of the total polling stations, approximately 3,590 have been designated as specially accessible stations. Each of these locations will feature two reserved disabled parking spaces, adapted seating, and clear pathways to the voting booths.

Detailed Guidelines for Polling Staff

Polling station ushers have received updated, detailed instruction manuals. The guidelines note that people with disabilities constitute about 17% of the population, with conditions ranging from physical and sensory to cognitive and temporary impairments, such as recovery from surgery.

Staff are instructed to follow specific protocols:

• Always ask "Do you need help?" and then "How can I help?" rather than assuming assistance is required.

• Address the voter directly, rather than their companion.

• Avoid asking about the nature of the voter's disability.

• For hard-of-hearing voters, speak with an uncovered face and offer pen and paper or digital communication.

• Respect the priority voting rights of those holding queue-exempt cards.

• Allow guide dogs and service dogs to enter without demanding documentation, while refraining from petting or distracting service animals while they are working.

Emotional Accessibility and War Trauma

For the first time, the Central Elections Committee is introducing structured training for "emotional accessibility." This initiative is designed to prepare staff to assist voters dealing with mental health challenges, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which have become increasingly prevalent.

Yossi Hadad, the Accessibility Coordinator of the Central Elections Committee, emphasized the importance of these measures:

"This year, we made many adjustments in line with the spirit of the times, understanding that there is a wider public in need of solutions and accessibility—such as those wounded in the war and individuals suffering from post-trauma. We held training sessions and refreshed procedures regarding service dogs, queue exemptions, and sensitive interactions with traumatized voters."

Protecting Democratic Integrity

Dean Livne, the Acting Director-General of the Central Elections Committee, framed these preparations as part of a broader effort to protect the democratic process.

"The preparations for the country's largest civil operation began many months ago, anchored in a broad concept of accessibility—not just physical, but as a guarantee of optimal conditions for every citizen to exercise their right with security and dignity. In this election, we face two main challenges: countering foreign influence, disinformation, and fake news, alongside providing comprehensive solutions for populations with physical and mental disabilities following the years of war."

Livne urged the public to remain vigilant against online disinformation campaigns and to rely solely on official updates from the Central Elections Committee.