Guidelines to Assist National Minority Participation in the Electoral Process Page: 31 CHECKLIST Depending on the electoral system in place, do the electoral boundaries take into consideration or assume: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. Item Yes Physical / geographical constraints and facilities such as rivers, mountains, roads, etc. Communities of interests Ease of access by minority groups A close identification by electors with an elected representative The avoidance of dividing and dispersing minority groups in terms of voting impact The “independence” and neutrality of those charged with drawing up or changing electoral boundaries The opportunity for public input into the redistricting process The intervals between major revisions to existing boundaries The criteria (over and above those listed above) affecting the determination of boundary lines That electoral districts are relatively equal or equitable with respect to population / geographic ratio The need for equitable and balanced input by all parties if political involvement is permitted The existence of minority representation on, or official input into, the body responsible for drawing up the electoral boundaries The avoidance of gerrymandering or boundary manipulation The rights of refugees and displaced persons No