European companies face strict compliance deadlines for accessibility laws
- The European Accessibility Act mandates compliance for market access, coming into effect on June 28, 2025.
- Experts highlighted the necessity for organizations to prepare and prioritize training to meet the upcoming standards.
- Collaboration between accessibility teams and market access departments is critical to ensure compliance and enhance product quality.
In December 2024, significant discussions took place regarding the upcoming European Accessibility Act (EAA), which comes into force on June 28, 2025. The EAA aims to ensure accessibility across various technologies such as computers, smartphones, ATMs, and more, with a focus on enhancing market access for individuals with disabilities. Notably, compliance with this legislation is now mandatory for companies that wish to sell products within the European single market, linking accessibility requirements directly to CE certification. Failure to meet these standards will result in companies being excluded from this lucrative market, significantly impacting global organizations. Experts at the BDF’s Global Disability Conference highlighted the urgency for organizations to begin preparations for the EAA. They warned against the pitfalls many companies faced with previous accessibility legislation, emphasizing the necessity of thorough training and roadmap development. Corbb O'Connor from Level Access stated the importance of prioritizing EAA compliance, underscoring the different penalties associated with this legislation compared to past regulations. The focus is on enabling market access rather than just financial penalties, making compliance critical. Furthermore, the conference showcased the need for better collaboration between accessibility teams and market access departments within organizations. Sabine Lobnig from the Mobile & Wireless Forum stressed that bridging the gap between these groups is crucial for developing a comprehensive approach to accessibility. This collaboration is integral in ensuring that products meet both market needs and accessibility standards, thus avoiding potential legal repercussions and improving product quality. As we approach the compliance deadline in 2025, many uncertainties remain surrounding the EAA. Companies are encouraged to start strategic planning and engage in discussions about accessibility to avoid the pitfalls seen in previous legislation implementation. With different legislative frameworks emerging, organizations must stay informed and proactive to navigate this evolving landscape successfully.