Slovenia - 2018

Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications Act in Slovenia

Overview

The Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications Act is a Slovenian law that ensures websites and mobile apps are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. It aligns with the EU Directive 2016/2102, which promotes equal access to digital public services across Europe. The goal is to remove barriers so that people with visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive impairments can use online services independently 812.

Key Requirements

  1. Accessible Design – Websites and mobile apps must follow accessibility standards, such as:

    - Text alternatives for images (for screen readers).

    - Keyboard navigation (for users who can’t use a mouse).

    - Adjustable text size and colour contrast (for visually impaired users).

    - Clear headings and predictable navigation 1112.

  2. Accessibility Statements – Public sector websites must publish an accessibility statement explaining:

    - Which parts of the site meet accessibility standards.

    - Known issues and planned fixes.

    - How users can report problems 412.

  3. Exemptions – Some content is excluded, such as:

    - Archived content published before September 23, 2018.

    - Pre-recorded videos without subtitles (unless newly added).

    - Third-party content not funded by the organization 813.

Important Dates

  • Enacted: September 23, 2018 (for new websites).
  • Deadline for older websites: September 23, 2020 (unless exempt).
  • Mobile apps compliance deadline: June 23, 2021 812.

Who Must Comply?

  • Public sector bodies (government websites, public services).
  • Some private organizations providing essential services (e.g., transport, banking) may also fall under similar EU-wide rules like the European Accessibility Act (EAA), effective June 28, 202549.

Enforcement & Penalties

  • The Ministry of Digital Transformation and the Information Society Inspectorate oversee compliance.
  • Non-compliance can lead to fines, though specific penalties are outlined in broader Slovenian accessibility laws 1213.

Based on the Official Document

This explanation summarizes the Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications Act (Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 30/18). For the full legal text, visit:
https://pisrs.si/pregledPredpisa?sop=2018-01-1351