The European Accessibility Act (EAA) mandates digital accessibility compliance for all users, including those with disabilities, and will extend to the private sector in the EU by June 2025.
EAA follows the EN 301 549 and requires adherence to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 standards, impacting businesses in member states and beyond.
WCAG levels, including A, AA, and AAA, dictate the degree of accessibility compliance required, with Level AA being the standard under the EAA.
To meet EAA requirements, strategies like ensuring color contrast ratios, keyboard functionality, multimedia accessibility, proper headings, and screen reader support are essential.
Tools such as WAVE, Stark, and JAWS assist in evaluating and designing accessible digital products to comply with WCAG 2.1, Level AA standards.
Compliance with EAA is crucial for all businesses dealing with ICT or digital products accessible to EU citizens, as non-compliance may lead to legal repercussions.
Building inclusive and accessible digital products is not just the right thing to do but is now a legal requirement to avoid potential legal action.
Prioritizing accessibility in UX design not only enhances user experience but also ensures compliance with evolving standards for digital inclusivity.
By implementing the recommended strategies and using accessible design tools, businesses can future-proof their digital products and meet the upcoming EAA requirements.
Staying informed about WCAG updates, utilizing evaluation tools, and training on accessibility best practices are essential steps to prepare for EAA enforcement.