Brazilian elections continue to move towards inclusion and accessibility for all voters. Now, the 2024 electronic voting machines, which are already a symbol of efficiency and modernity, are increasingly prepared to serve voters with special needs, especially those with visual impairments.

One of the most significant innovations is the introduction of a synthesized voice, called Leticia. This feature is a major step towards making voting easier for people who are blind or have low vision. Using Artificial Intelligence, Leticia’s voice provides clear and understandable instructions, making the voting process more natural and accessible.

During voting, Letícia guides visually impaired voters, providing instructions on the positions being contested, numbers to be entered and names of candidates. This feature ensures that these voters can vote safely and independently, without the need for external assistance, thus preserving the secrecy of the vote.

Additional Resources and the Inclusion of Libras in Electronic Voting Machines

In addition to synthesized voice, electronic voting machines continue to offer Braille keyboards, providing a tactile interface so that blind voters can locate and press the numbers corresponding to their candidates independently.

Since the 2022 elections, electronic voting machines have also been equipped with translation into Libras (Brazilian Sign Language). This feature is essential for the inclusion of deaf voters, ensuring that they can understand the instructions and the voting process without language barriers.

Commitment to Accessibility

These improvements are part of Brazil’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and accessibility in all aspects of public life. With each election, the technologies and features available in electronic voting machines are improved to accommodate the growing number of voters with special needs, ensuring that everyone can exercise their right to vote fully and independently.

The development and implementation of technologies such as Letícia’s synthesized voice and Libras translation are examples of how innovation can be used to promote inclusion. As we continue to advance, it is expected that more features and technologies will be integrated into the electoral system, making Brazil a global example of accessibility and inclusion.

RenovaBR celebrates these initiatives and supports all efforts to ensure that every Brazilian citizen, regardless of their special needs, can actively participate in the democratic process.