RGAA in France: A Simple Explanation
What is the RGAA?
The RGAA (Référentiel Général d’Amélioration de l’Accessibilité) is France’s general framework for improving digital accessibility. It ensures that websites, apps, and other digital services are usable by everyone, including people with disabilities.
Key Requirements in Simple Terms
The RGAA sets rules to make sure digital content is accessible. Here’s what it covers:
- Text Alternatives – Images, videos, and audio must have text descriptions so screen readers can explain them to visually impaired users.
- Keyboard Navigation – Websites should work without a mouse, allowing people who use keyboards or assistive devices to navigate easily.
- Readable Content – Text must be clear, with good contrast and resizable fonts for those with vision difficulties.
- Structured Layouts – Headings, lists, and labels must be properly marked up so screen readers can understand the page structure.
- Forms & Interactive Elements – Buttons, dropdowns, and forms should be easy to use with assistive technologies.
Who Needs to Follow the RGAA?
- Public sector websites (government services, schools, etc.) must comply.
- Private companies providing public services may also need to follow these rules.
Important Dates
- The RGAA has been updated over time, with the latest version (RGAA 4.1) aligning with international standards.
- Public sector websites in France were required to meet accessibility standards by September 2020.
Based on Official Guidelines
This explanation is based on the official RGAA documentation. For more details, visit:
https://www.numerique.gouv.fr/publications/rgaa-accessibilite/