What does disenfranchisement mean in a political context?

In a political context, disenfranchisement refers specifically to the removal of voting rights from individuals or groups. This can occur through various means, such as laws that impose restrictions on voting qualifications or practices that systematically exclude certain populations from participating in elections. Historical examples include literacy tests, poll taxes, and laws that prevent specific groups, such as felons or certain racial minorities, from voting.

Understanding disenfranchisement is crucial as it highlights issues of access to the democratic process and the importance of protecting voting rights for all citizens. The other options pertain to enhancing participation and equity in the electoral process, but they do not accurately capture the meaning of disenfranchisement, which centers on the denial of the right to vote.