June 28, 2025, will mark a crucial date for digital accessibility in Europe with the entry into force of the European Accessibility Act (EAA). This directive, designed to improve the functioning of the internal market for accessible products and services, represents a significant step forward in building a more inclusive Europe. With the introduction of unified regulatory standards, the EAA 2025 will eliminate existing disparities among Member States, providing a clear and consistent regulatory framework for the creation and adaptation of accessible digital products and services.
The Importance of the European Accessibility Act
Digital accessibility is a matter of human rights and social equity. People with disabilities face daily barriers to accessing digital services, often due to non-inclusive design. The EAA introduces clear obligations for companies to ensure that their products and services meet specific accessibility criteria, guaranteeing that no one is excluded from using digital technologies.
Starting from June 28, 2025, all companies must ensure that newly marketed products and services covered by the directive are accessible. However, some exceptions are provided: micro-enterprises (with fewer than 10 employees) that provide services are exempt, as well as service providers using self-service terminals, for whom more time may be granted to comply with the new rules.
The Implementation of the EAA in the UK, in the USA, and in the World
In the UK
Since leaving the EU, the UK has taken its own approach to accessibility regulations. The Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018 set legal requirements for accessibility, ensuring that public sector websites and applications meet specific standards. While the UK is not directly bound by the EAA, businesses operating across Europe will need to comply with its requirements. Moreover, ongoing discussions about updating UK accessibility laws may lead to further alignment with EAA principles.
In the USA
The USA has long-standing accessibility regulations, particularly through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws require that digital services and products be accessible to people with disabilities, particularly for government agencies and federally funded programs. The private sector is also increasingly adopting WCAG 2.1 guidelines to ensure compliance and avoid legal challenges. With the EAA setting a high standard in Europe, US companies operating internationally will need to ensure their digital services align with both local and European accessibility requirements.
In the world
Global accessibility regulations vary, but many countries are gradually aligning their standards with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Nations such as Canada, Australia, and Japan have introduced their own accessibility laws, often inspired by European and American frameworks. The EAA is expected to serve as a model for future global legislation, pushing companies worldwide to prioritize digital inclusion.
Learn more here:
- Accessibile Canada Act
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – Accessibility in Electronic Voting
Challenges and opportunities for accessibility worldwide
Harmonization of accessibility standards: Ensuring uniform accessibility requirements across different markets is crucial to prevent fragmentation and guarantee that all people with disabilities can access digital services without difficulty.
Verification and compliance monitoring: Companies operating internationally must navigate multiple legal frameworks and ensure their products and services comply with various accessibility regulations.
Encouraging small businesses: Although some smaller businesses may be exempt from certain obligations, promoting accessibility can enhance their market reach and contribute to a more inclusive digital ecosystem.
Key sectors to be adapted: From e-commerce to public services, digital banking, and transportation, numerous industries must integrate accessibility as a fundamental standard.
The EAA and electronic voting: an opportunity for Inclusion
One of the areas where the European Accessibility Act will have a significant impact is electronic and online voting. Digital accessibility is not only a concern for the private sector but also for democratic participation. Many people with disabilities face barriers in exercising their right to vote due to physical, cognitive, and sensory obstacles.
Online voting, if designed with universal design principles, can provide greater autonomy, privacy, and security. Platforms like Eligo, which already comply with WCAG 2 web accessibility standards, are developing increasingly inclusive solutions to allow everyone to participate in decision-making processes without limitations.
Thanks to the EAA, the adoption of accessibility standards for electronic voting will become a key requirement, ensuring that every citizen can cast their vote independently and without barriers.
Towards a more inclusive digital future with the European Accessibility Act
The entry into force of the European Accessibility Act marks a turning point for digital accessibility in Europe and beyond. The harmonization of standards, the improvement of digital services, and the inclusion of people with disabilities are key objectives for creating a more equitable and participatory society.
Despite the challenges, many countries have already taken significant steps toward this goal, with regulations and guidelines that anticipate the implementation of the EAA. Companies, institutions, and organizations must commit to ensuring that digital technologies are accessible to everyone, without exceptions.
The EAA is not just a regulation – it is an opportunity to build a more inclusive future, where accessibility is no longer an option but a fundamental principle of every technological innovation.