European Accessibility Act of 2025

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so too do the regulations that govern it. The European Accessibility Act of 2025 (EAA) is a groundbreaking piece of legislation designed to ensure that digital services and products are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.

This comprehensive law mandates that businesses and public entities create accessible online environments, covering everything from websites and e-commerce platforms to e-banking, e-books, ticketing systems and ATMs.

Although not directly impacting UK businesses, this legislation signals a shift towards more inclusive digital practices, reflecting trends already seen in other regions with existing accessibility laws which we would expect to see reaching our shores soon.

During their trip to BrightonSEO, Molly and Jordan caught Damien Robert’s talk, “Avoid the 2025 web accessibility rush: do not fear WCAG compliance” and fed back to the team the importance of the new legislation.

Why This Matters

The importance of the EAA cannot be overstated. According to the World Health Organisation, over one billion people globally live with some form of disability. By ensuring accessibility, we are not only complying with legal standards but also demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. This move benefits everyone by creating a more user-friendly digital environment. Accessible websites are easier to navigate, more engaging, and provide a better user experience for all visitors, not just those with disabilities.

Moreover, embracing accessibility can enhance your brand’s reputation and open your business to a broader audience. Accessibility is not just about legal compliance; it’s about social responsibility and good business practice.

What Impact Could It Have on Your Business

The EAA will have a significant impact on businesses with an online presence. Here are some key areas where you might feel the effects:

• Compliance Costs: There will be an initial investment required to audit and update your website to meet the new standards. This might include redesigning certain elements, adding new features, and conducting regular testing.
• Legal Implications: Non-compliance could result in fines and legal challenges. Ensuring your website meets the EAA standards will help you avoid these potential pitfalls.
• Market Reach: By making your website accessible, you can attract a more diverse audience, including people with disabilities who may have previously been unable to use your services.
• Brand Perception: Demonstrating a commitment to accessibility can enhance your brand’s reputation as a socially responsible entity. This can foster customer loyalty and attract positive attention from stakeholders and the media.

The European Accessibility Act of 2025 is not just a legal requirement; it’s an opportunity to make the digital world more inclusive and equitable. Rather than feeling overwhelmed, we should seize this chance to improve our websites for the benefit of all users. By embracing accessibility, we can enhance user experience, broaden our audience, and position our businesses as leaders in digital inclusivity.

Investing in accessibility toolbars such as accessiBe or ReciteMe can be the first step for many businesses looking to become more accessible. Requiring very little development changes, a toolbar like this can give users access to basic tools to improve their experience on the site. Additionally, having one of these toolbars on your site means you are legally protected from any challenges from an accessibility viewpoint.

So, rather than cowering at the changes to accessibility law, let’s take this opportunity to reshuffle our websites and ensure they serve everyone effectively. The EAA is a step forward for digital equality, and together, we can make the internet a more accessible place for all.

If you have any questions about the new law or would like to improve the accessibility of your site, speak to one of the team today.