The European Accessibility Act (EAA) and Its Impact on Websites Offering Digital Content

The European Accessibility Act (EAA), adopted by the European Parliament in 2019, represents a landmark step toward making goods and services in the European Union (EU) more accessible to people with disabilities. As part of the EU’s broader commitment to inclusion and non-discrimination, the EAA sets out clear requirements for businesses and service providers across a range of sectors, including websites that offer digital content such as e-books, video services, and online media.

By June 28, 2025, all member states must have incorporated these requirements into national law, ensuring that digital content is accessible to people with disabilities. The act aligns with the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and builds on existing legislation, such as the Web Accessibility Directive. For businesses, compliance with the EAA is not only a legal obligation but also an opportunity to expand their audience and improve the user experience for all customers.

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) and Its Impact on Websites Offering Digital Content

Key Requirements for Digital Content Providers

Websites offering digital content like e-books, streaming videos, and online media platforms are subject to several specific requirements under the EAA. These requirements are designed to ensure that users with disabilities—such as those who are blind, deaf, or have cognitive or motor impairments—can access and interact with the content in a meaningful way. Below are the main obligations for digital content providers:

1. Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications

The EAA mandates that websites and mobile applications offering digital content must be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. These four principles, often referred to by the acronym POUR, are rooted in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, specifically at the AA level. Key areas of focus include:

• Text Alternatives for Non-Text Content: Images, videos, and other non-text content must have alternative descriptions (e.g., alt text) that can be read by screen readers for users who are blind or visually impaired.
• Keyboard Navigation: Websites and mobile apps should be fully navigable via keyboard, without requiring a mouse, to accommodate users with motor impairments.
• Contrast and Color Use: Text and background color combinations should have a high contrast ratio to ensure readability for users with low vision or color blindness.
• Captions and Audio Descriptions: Video content must include captions for users who are deaf or hard of hearing and should provide audio descriptions where necessary to make the video content understandable to blind users.
• Clear Structure and Navigation: Content should be organized logically and clearly, allowing users to easily navigate between sections, especially those using assistive technologies such as screen readers.
  

2. E-Book Accessibility

E-books, a growing segment of the digital content market, must also adhere to specific accessibility guidelines under the EAA. Some key requirements include:

• Adjustable Text: E-book readers must allow users to modify text size, font style, and background color for better readability.
• Text-to-Speech Compatibility: E-books should be compatible with screen readers or text-to-speech functionality, enabling users to listen to the text if they cannot read it visually.
• Structured Navigation: E-books must include structured navigation elements such as headings, chapters, and page numbers, ensuring that users can easily move through the content.
  

3. Video and Audio Streaming Services

For video services, the EAA emphasizes the importance of accessibility for both live and pre-recorded content. These requirements include:

• Captions for All Media: Providers of video services must include captions or subtitles for both live and pre-recorded content, ensuring that users with hearing impairments can follow the content.
• Sign Language Interpretation: While not always mandatory, the EAA encourages the inclusion of sign language interpretation, particularly for important or public interest content.
• Audio Descriptions: Video content should offer audio descriptions that explain visual elements for users who are blind or have low vision.
• Accessible Media Players: Media players should be designed to accommodate keyboard navigation and be compatible with assistive technologies.
  

4. User-Friendly Interfaces

Digital content providers are required to ensure that user interfaces are accessible and easy to interact with. This includes the design of menus, forms, controls, and buttons used for logging in, subscribing to services, or purchasing digital content. Websites must avoid complicated layouts or interactions that could be a barrier to users with disabilities.

5. Electronic Commerce and Customer Services

Websites and applications offering digital content that involve e-commerce transactions must ensure the accessibility of their purchasing process, including:

• Accessible Payment Gateways: Payment forms and checkout processes must be navigable and usable for all customers, including those relying on assistive technologies.
• Accessible Customer Support: Customer support channels, such as live chat or email, must be accessible to users with disabilities. This may include offering support in multiple formats, such as text, voice, and video.
  

Exemptions and Flexibility

While the EAA applies broadly, there are some exemptions. For example, microenterprises (companies with fewer than 10 employees and a turnover of less than €2 million) that provide services directly to consumers may be exempt from certain obligations. However, these businesses are still encouraged to adopt accessible practices where feasible.

Enforcement and Penalties

EU member states are responsible for enforcing the EAA and can impose sanctions or penalties on businesses that fail to comply. Companies offering digital content should be proactive in auditing their websites and digital platforms for accessibility issues well before the 2025 deadline. By ensuring compliance, businesses not only avoid legal consequences but also enhance their reputation and open their services to a wider audience.

Conclusion

The European Accessibility Act is set to have a significant impact on websites offering digital content such as e-books, video services, and online media. By ensuring that their websites and applications are fully accessible to people with disabilities, companies can comply with the law and create a more inclusive digital environment. With the deadline fast approaching in 2025, now is the time for digital content providers to assess their platforms and take the necessary steps to meet the EAA’s requirements. In doing so, they will not only avoid legal penalties but also contribute to a more accessible and equitable digital world for all users.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)