Digital Accessibility Legislature: Key Laws Around the World
As digital accessibility becomes increasingly important, governments worldwide have established laws and regulations to ensure equal access to digital content for people with disabilities. Understanding these legal frameworks is essential for organizations operating in multiple regions. This article provides an overview of the most significant accessibility laws that digital agencies and their clients need to be aware of.
Key Accessibility Laws Around the World
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – USA
The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and requires businesses, including digital platforms, to provide equal access. Websites that fail to meet accessibility standards can face legal action.
Recent court rulings have consistently interpreted Title III of the ADA to apply to websites, even though the law was enacted in 1990 before the modern web existed. Organizations with an online presence serving U.S. customers should ensure WCAG 2.1 AA compliance to mitigate legal risk.
European Accessibility Act (EUAA) – European Union
The EUAA aims to ensure products and services are accessible to all citizens within the EU. It applies to e-commerce sites, banking services, and public sector digital content.
The EUAA will be fully enforced starting June 28, 2025, giving organizations a deadline to ensure their digital products and services comply with accessibility requirements. The act harmonizes accessibility standards across EU member states, making it easier for businesses to operate throughout the European market.
The Accessibility Improvement Act – USA
This act strengthens digital accessibility requirements in the U.S., ensuring compliance with WCAG standards and pushing for better enforcement.
It builds upon the foundation laid by the ADA and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, providing clearer guidelines for digital accessibility and increasing penalties for non-compliance.
German Accessibility Laws (BFSG & BITV 2.0)
Germany enforces digital accessibility through the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) and the Barrierefreie-Informationstechnik-Verordnung (BITV 2.0), which align with EU regulations.
These laws require both public and private sector organizations to make their digital offerings accessible to people with disabilities. The BITV 2.0 specifically references WCAG 2.1 as the technical standard for compliance.
Canada's Accessible Canada Act (ACA)
The ACA focuses on removing barriers in federally regulated industries, including web content and digital services, to create a more inclusive society.
Passed in 2019, the ACA establishes a framework for creating and enforcing accessibility standards across Canada. Organizations under federal jurisdiction must identify, remove, and prevent barriers to accessibility, including those in digital environments.
Making Accessibility a Priority
Creating an accessible web isn't just about compliance; it's about inclusivity. Simple adjustments—like adding alternative text to images, designing for keyboard navigation, and ensuring high color contrast—go a long way in making content usable for a diverse range of people.
By designing with accessibility in mind, we create a more equitable digital world where everyone can engage fully, regardless of ability or circumstance. The more inclusive we make our digital spaces, the better the experience becomes for everyone.
Staying Compliant Across Borders
For organizations operating internationally, navigating the various accessibility laws can be challenging. Here are some strategies to ensure compliance:
- Adopt WCAG 2.1 Level AA as a baseline standard, as it's referenced by most international accessibility laws
- Conduct regular accessibility audits using tools like WCAG Auditor
- Develop an accessibility statement that outlines your commitment to inclusive design
- Train your team on accessibility best practices and legal requirements
- Document your accessibility efforts to demonstrate due diligence in case of legal challenges
By proactively addressing accessibility requirements, organizations can not only avoid legal penalties but also expand their market reach and improve the user experience for all customers.