Web Accessibility: Breaking barriers, building inclusivity

The European Accessibilities Act (EAA) is an important step for people with disabilities across the EU, setting new standards for accessibility to ensure that everybody can fully participate in society. Under the EAA, private companies are now required to provide digital experiences that are inclusive and user-friendly for all. This means that your website must be accessible to everyone—including millions of potential customers with disabilities and the elderly.

• Who does the EAA apply to? 
  The EAA applies to both the public and private sectors, focusing on industries like technology, telecommunications, e-commerce, transport, banking and finance. If your business serves consumers in the EU—regardless of where you’re based—you may fall under its scope.

• When do you need to comply?
  Member States were required to implement the EAA into their national laws by June 28, 2022, with businesses expected to meet compliance standards by June 28, 2025.

• Does the EAA cover all websites?
  Not every website is affected. The EAA specifically targets websites of certain businesses and organizations that offer products and services covered by it. These include, inter alia online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms, such as those that sell products or services and include a payment process, businesses offering transport (i.e. bookings and ticketing services), telecommunications (for e.g. mobile, broadband, and digital communication services), banking and financial services, as well as businesses offering audiovisual media services such as streaming platforms.

At the DSN GROUP, we are here to make compliance easy for you. Whether you need an accessibility audit including the assessment of local legal obligations, hands-on improvements for your website, or long-term support, we will help your website meet the EAA’s requirements while enhancing user experience for all!

Failing to comply with the EAA can result in legal penalties, heavy fines, and restricted access to EU markets, as well as damage to your brand's reputation. Non-compliance may also alienate many potential customers with disabilities and the elderly and can therefore result in lost business opportunities for you.

As a team of privacy experts, we bring a unique blend of legal, regulatory and technical expertise to help your business:

• Achieve holistic compliance by seamlessly integrating privacy and accessibility requirements, ensuring there are no regulatory gaps;
• Mitigate risks with precise, legally sound accessibility documentation;
• Perform tailored audits and prepare customised action plans designed to align with your specific business needs;
• Stay ahead of future regulatory developments through proactive monitoring and compliance updates, keeping your website accessible and legally compliant beyond regulatory deadlines.

Don’t wait for the compliance deadline to act. Take the first step towards creating a more inclusive digital presence today. Get in touch with us to learn how we can help you make your website accessible to everyone!