Blog | 12 June 2025
Are you ready for the Accessibility Directive?
Web accessibility is not just about legal requirements, it is about people's right to access information and services, regardless of their ability. Since 2019, it has been a legal requirement for public sector organisations to make digital services accessible according to WCAG – Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. From June 28, 2025, private actors will also be covered, when the new law on the accessibility of certain products and services comes into force.
But accessibility is not just a legal issue. It is a question of quality, inclusion and responsibility.
It is estimated that around one fifth of the world's population has some form of disability, although it is easy to think that accessibility only affects a small group. In fact, it affects us all. Disabilities can be permanent, temporary or situational. Having an injured hand or being mentally exhausted can be enough to need extra support. An accessible web makes it easier for everyone.
What do the accessibility requirements mean?
The accessibility requirements are based on WCAG 2.1, level AA. This is an international framework that sets out guidelines for how digital services should be designed to work for as many people as possible. WCAG is divided into three levels: A, AA and AAA.
Here is an overview of the four principles on which the requirements are based:
PERCEIVABLE
Content should be accessible to people with visual or hearing impairments.
- Captions for videos
- Alt-texts for images
- Clear headings and structures
- Contrast between text and background
- Avoid conveying information with color or sound only
Manageable
The user should be able to navigate and interact.
- Functions on the page should be usable with a keyboard only
- Reasonable time to read and act without changing the content
- Clear interactive elements
CONFIDENTIAL
Both the language and the functions should be understandable to the visitor.
- Explanations of difficult concepts
- Clear forms and fields
- Avoid confusing functions
ROBUST
A robust website is technically durable and works over time, regardless of the browser, device or assistive technology used.
- Correct structure and code, use HTML according to web standards
- Compatible with assistive technologies
- Tested and checked to ensure functionality
Sitevision has strong accessibility support built into the platform. Learn more about our built-in accessibility features here.
So, what should you consider?
Meeting accessibility requirements is a combination of technology, content and practices. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- Start with the user – consider different needs, language comprehension, assistive technology and ways of navigating.
- Ensure technology – the platform you use should support different assistive technologies and be built with accessibility in mind.
- Create accessible content – headings, alternative texts, clear links and contrasts are essential.
- Train the editors – it is often the content creators who determine how accessible a page actually is.
- Test with real users – perhaps the most important point. Involving people with disabilities in testing provides invaluable insights and understanding of what works and why.
Are you ready?
Accessibility is not a checklist item. It is a constant work in progress. But with the right tools and the right mindset from the start, you have every chance of success.
Have you secured up for accessibility requirements? If not, now is the time to start.