Here’s What to Know about the European Accessibility Act (EAA)
The European Union’s Accessibility Act (EAA) is a groundbreaking legal framework that outlines the accessibility standards for goods and services. It is expected to have a significant impact on digital accessibility requirements for the foreseeable future. As the deadline for the EAA approaches, it’s important for businesses to understand its implications and ensure compliance.
EcomBack’s guide will explain the key aspects of the EAA, how it will impact private businesses, and the recommended steps for moving forward.
What is the EU Accessibility Act?
The European Accessibility Act, which was initially adopted in 2019, aims to create consistent regulations for accessibility throughout the European Union. Its goal is to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, provide more accessible products and services in the market, and facilitate easier cross-border trade.
The EAA now includes guidelines for web accessibility, which are based on the Website Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The WCAG requires that all digital platforms, such as websites and mobile applications, are operable, perceivable, understandable, and robust. With an increasing number of individuals accessing the internet for services, such as ordering products and financial transactions, it’s never been more crucial to ensure that all users have equitable access to online content.
When is the deadline?
The deadline for businesses to comply with the EAA is less than a year away, on June 28, 2025.
Who does the EAA cover?
The EAA covers many areas, such as computers, operating systems, smartphones, ATMs, ticketing machines, banking services, e-books, e-commerce, and more. Its aim is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to engage in society and enjoy the same level of access to the digital environment.
If you’re a private business trading within the EU’s 27 member states, you must comply with the EAA.
The EU countries are:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.
Non-compliance with the EAA could result in fines and other penalties, the severity of which is determined by individual member states.
What are the Other Accessibility Laws in the EU?
There are already accessibility regulations in the UK and the EU, including the EU Web Accessibility Directive, the Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations, and EN 301 549.
Here’s a brief overview:
- The EU Web Accessibility Directive (WAD): A legislative act that outlines specific standards for web accessibility, and member states of the European Union are obligated to implement its provisions into their national laws. The requirements include an accessibility statement for each website and app, a feedback feature for users to report accessibility issues, and regular monitoring and reporting by member states.
- The Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations (PSBAR): Originally went into effect in 2018 to ensure public sector organisations make their websites and mobile apps accessible.
- EN 301 549: Notably, the EN 301 49 standard is required by the EAA and requires EU member states to abide by WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.
It should also be noted that each country within the EU may also have its own rules and regulations. It’s important to always stay up to date with all accessibility laws to avoid legal consequences.
EcomBack Helps Your Business Meet EAA Standards
If you are an EU-based organization or do business within the EU, EcomBack is here to help. We can assist your business in meeting EAA standards by guiding you through the technical requirements and devising an accessibility strategy for your website. EcomBack provides comprehensive solutions designed to ensure your site is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. We offer accessibility audits, remediation services, an accessibility template, training advice, and more.
Learn about our web accessibility services today and get in touch with an EcomBack expert to help you begin your journey towards digital equality.
