Understanding Article 429q of the Penal Code (Netherlands)
Overview
Article 429q is part of the Dutch Penal Code that addresses web accessibility requirements for public sector organisations. This law ensures that people with disabilities can access and use government websites and mobile applications just like everyone else.
Key Provisions in Simple Terms
1. Who it applies to: The law covers all public sector bodies in the Netherlands, including government ministries, municipalities, and public institutions 2.
2. Accessibility standards: Organizations must make their websites and mobile apps accessible according to international WCAG 2.1 guidelines at AA level. This means:
- Text alternatives for non-text content
- Content that can be presented in different ways
- Content that's easier to see and hear
- All functionality available from a keyboard 2
3. Compliance deadlines:
- New websites must comply immediately
- Existing websites had to comply by September 23, 2020
- Mobile applications had to comply by June 23, 2021 2
4. Enforcement: Organizations must publish an accessibility statement explaining:
- Which parts aren't fully accessible
- Reasons for any limitations
- Alternative ways to access the information
- Contact details for reporting accessibility problems 2
5. Monitoring: The government checks compliance and can take action against organizations that don't meet the requirements 2.
Important Notes
This law implements the EU Web Accessibility Directive (2016/2102) in Dutch legislation. It's part of a broader effort to make digital government services inclusive for all citizens 2.
This explanation is based on the official Dutch legislation. For the complete legal text, please refer to the official document at: https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0001854/2015-08-01#BoekDerde_TiteldeelII_Artikel429quater