European Accessibility Act (EAA) in Germany: A Simple Explanation
What is the EAA?
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a law designed to make everyday products and services more accessible to people with disabilities. In Germany, it’s implemented through the Barrierefreiheit Stärkungsgesetz (BFSG)—which translates to the "Accessibility Strengthening Act." The goal is to ensure that everyone, including those with disabilities, can use digital services, websites, mobile apps, and certain physical products without barriers 16.
Key Requirements in Simple Terms
The EAA in Germany applies to businesses and requires them to make their products and services accessible. Here’s what that means:
- Digital Accessibility – Websites, apps, and online services (like e-commerce or banking) must work with screen readers, have keyboard navigation, proper color contrast, and captions for videos.
- Physical Products – Things like ATMs, ticket machines, smartphones, and e-readers must be usable by people with disabilities (e.g., tactile buttons, voice guidance).
- Services – Online shopping, banking, transportation booking, and telecom services must be designed so that people with visual, hearing, or motor impairments can use them easily.
- Accessibility Statements – Businesses must publish a statement explaining how accessible their services are and how users can report issues.
Who Needs to Comply?
- Private companies selling products or services in Germany (unless they’re very small—fewer than 10 employees and under €2 million annual turnover).
- Public sector services are already covered under older laws, but the EAA expands these rules to businesses.
Important Deadlines
- June 28, 2025 – New or updated products/services must comply.
- June 28, 2030 – Older products/services must be updated or phased out.
- June 28, 2045 – Deadline for replacing non-compliant self-service machines (like ATMs) installed before 2025.
What Happens if a Business Doesn’t Comply?
- Fines up to €100,000 for major violations.
- Legal action from consumer groups or competitors.
- Reputation damage—customers may avoid businesses that aren’t inclusive.
How Can Businesses Prepare?
- Audit – Check if their websites, apps, or products meet accessibility standards (like WCAG 2.1).
- Fix Issues – Add alt text for images, keyboard navigation, and captions where needed.
- Train Teams – Teach employees about accessibility best practices.
- Publish an Accessibility Statement – Be transparent about compliance status.
This explanation is based on the official European Accessibility Act (EAA) and Germany’s implementing laws. For more details, visit the official EU page: https://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1202.