What is digital accessibility?
Digital accessibility means that websites and apps must be user friendly for everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive limitations. This includes adjustments such as scalable text, sufficient contrast for visual clarity, and navigation that can also be used via keyboard only.
Why is accessibility important?
Twenty seven percent of the European population lives with a disability that makes it harder to use digital services. This affects not only individual users but also social inclusion and economic participation. Websites that are not accessible risk losing potential customers and may also face legal consequences.
The four principles of WCAG
- Perceivable: Make sure all users can perceive the information on your website. This includes adding alt text to images and ensuring sufficient contrast throughout your site.
- Operable: Your website must be easy to operate, for example by allowing users to navigate with a keyboard and not only with a mouse.
- Understandable: The content on your website must be clear and easy to understand. Consistent terminology and predictable navigation play an important role in this.
- Robust: Your website must function reliably across different devices and browsers and be compatible with assistive technologies.
Guidelines and levels of compliance
The WCAG guidelines are divided into three levels of compliance: A, AA, and AAA. Starting in June 2025, every new website must meet at least levels A and AA. Level AAA is not mandatory, but it is recommended for those who want to further enhance accessibility.
Who is required to follow WCAG?
Starting in 2025, WCAG becomes mandatory for all companies and organizations that provide digital products such as websites and apps. It was already required for government institutions, and from June 2025 onward, this requirement applies to every new website that is published.
Enforcement and consequences
Companies that do not comply with WCAG may face fines starting in 2025, although the exact details regarding enforcement and the size of the fines have yet to be determined.
Making your website WCAG compliant
Implementing WCAG guidelines in your website design is not only a legal requirement but also significantly improves the user experience for a wide audience. We are happy to help you make your website accessible and compliant with the upcoming regulations. Contact us to discuss the possibilities and ensure your website is ready for 2025.
This article provides an overview of the upcoming changes in digital accessibility and explains how you can prepare for these new requirements. By taking action now, you ensure that your website is ready for the future and accessible to everyone.
