Understanding Greece's Law 4591/2019 on Web Accessibility
What is Law 4591/2019?
Law 4591/2019 is a Greek law that ensures websites and mobile apps from public sector organisations are accessible to people with disabilities. It was enacted to align with the EU Web Accessibility Directive (2016/2102), making digital services more inclusive for everyone, including those with visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive impairments.
Key Provisions in Simple Terms
1. Who Must Comply?
- All public sector bodies in Greece, including government websites, universities, and public services, must follow accessibility rules.
- This law does not directly cover private companies, but similar EU-wide rules (like the European Accessibility Act) may apply to them.
2. Accessibility Requirements
- Websites and apps must meet international standards (WCAG 2.1 Level AA) to be used with screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other assistive technologies.
- Features like text alternatives for images, readable fonts, and clear navigation must be included.
3. Important Deadlines
- The law was passed on February 12, 2019 (Government Gazette 19A).
- Public sector websites had to comply by September 23, 2020, while mobile apps had until June 23, 2021.
4. Enforcement & Feedback
- Users can report accessibility issues to the organisation or escalate complaints to the Greek Ombudsman if unresolved.
- Organisations must publish an accessibility statement explaining their compliance status.
Why This Law Matters
By making digital services accessible, Greece ensures equal access to information and opportunities for people with disabilities, fulfilling national and EU commitments to inclusion.
This explanation is based on the official document of Law 4591/2019 (Government Gazette 19A'/12-02-2019). For the full legal text, visit the official source here.