Accessibility in the Digital Space: A Legal and Ethical Responsibility

Digital accessibility is increasingly recognised as a fundamental aspect of inclusive digital transformation. It ensures that websites, online services, and mobile applications can be accessed and used by everyone, including people with disabilities and age-related impairments.

In line with this principle, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) has introduced harmonised rules across the EU. Since 28 June 2025, digital products and services provided to the public must comply with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards (or the equivalent criteria defined in EN 301 549).

This marks a significant step forward, positioning accessibility as a legal obligation rather than a voluntary choice.

What Does the EAA Require?

The EAA applies to a wide range of digital services, including:

Organisations that fail to comply may face:

A Framework for Achieving Compliance

Achieving accessibility is an ongoing process. A structured approach can help organisations assess and improve their digital assets. Below is a five-step framework to support compliance:

1. Conduct an Accessibility Audit

Assess the current state of your website or application using both automated tools and manual testing (including screen readers and keyboard navigation). This helps identify gaps in structure, content, and functionality.

2. Define a Remediation Plan

Based on audit findings, create a roadmap for alignment with WCAG 2.2 and EN 301 549 guidelines. Prioritise issues based on their impact on users.

3. Implement Technical and Content Fixes

Assess the current state of your website or application using both automated tools and manual testing (including screen readers and keyboard navigation). This helps identify gaps in structure, content, and functionality. Typical areas for remediation include:

4. Publish an Accessibility Statement

An accessibility statement is a public document that outlines your organization’s commitment to digital inclusion, detailing your conformance with accessibility standards like WCAG. It must provide a feedback mechanism for users to report issues and should be reviewed and republished at least once a year to reflect your ongoing improvements.

5. Integrate Accessibility into Ongoing Processes

Maintain compliance over time through continuous monitoring, regular audits, and staff training on accessibility best practices.

Accessibility as a Pillar of Digital Inclusion

While the EAA introduces binding requirements, its purpose extends beyond legal compliance. Promoting accessibility means reducing barriers, fostering equity, and ensuring that digital transformation benefits all users equally.
Organisations that embed accessibility into their design and development processes contribute to a more inclusive digital ecosystem—while also improving usability, performance, and long-term sustainability of their digital assets.

For more information or to assess for free your current level of accessibility, visit our Accessibility Resources Page