Law Regarding the Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications for Public Bodies  

Overview  

This law ensures that websites and mobile apps run by public organizations in Belgium are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. The goal is to make sure that digital services provided by the government and other public bodies are easy to use for all citizens.  

Key Requirements in Simple Terms  

1. Accessibility Standards: Public sector websites and apps must follow international accessibility guidelines (like WCAG 2.1) to make sure they work well for people with visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive disabilities.  

2. Regular Checks: Organizations must check and report on their website and app accessibility regularly.  

3. Feedback Mechanism: People should be able to report accessibility problems, and public bodies must respond and fix issues.  

4. Mobile Apps Included: The law covers not just websites but also mobile applications provided by public organizations.  

Important Dates  

- Enacted: July 19, 2018  

- Compliance Deadlines:  

  - New websites had to comply by September 23, 2019.  

  - Older websites needed to meet the rules by September 23, 2020.  

  - Mobile apps had to be accessible by June 23, 2021.  

Based on Official Document  

This explanation is a simplified summary of the official law. For full details, check the original document here: https://www.ejustice.just.fgov.be/eli/wet/2018/07/19/2018040577/staatsblad