14/04/2025 Accessibilità digitale: cosa cambia dal 28 giugno 2025
From 28 June 2025, new European legislation will come into force that will change the way companies, public authorities and digital service providers will have to design and manage their products: this is the European Accessibility Act (EAA), a directive designed to make the digital world more inclusive and accessible to all.
What is the European Accessibility Act?
The EAA is a European Union directive introducing common accessibility requirements for a range of digital products and services. The aim is to ensure that everyone – regardless of visual, hearing, motor or cognitive limitations – can effectively access digital content, tools and features.
Who does it apply to?
The directive covers all economic operators offering digital products and services in the European market.
Micro-enterprises (fewer than 10 employees and a turnover of less than EUR 2 million) are excluded, with specific exceptions.
SMEs and large companies, on the other hand, must adapt, unless they can prove that adaptation would entail a disproportionate burden: in that case, the reasons must be precisely documented and kept for at least five years.
Which products and services are involved?
The scope is broad and covers, among others:
- websites and mobile apps
- e-commerce platforms
- self-service counters and digital kiosks
- online banking services
- e-book readers
- electronic communication services
- booking and information systems in passenger transport
What does “accessible” mean?
It refers to WCAG 2.1 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), international guidelines that define criteria for making digital content
- perceptible (e.g. alternative text for images, adequate contrast)
- usable (e.g. keyboard navigation)
- understandable (e.g. clear structure, simple language)
- robust (e.g. compatibility with assistive technologies such as screen readers)er)
Why adapt (even if not obliged)?
Accessibility is not only a legal obligation, but also a concrete opportunity:
- More users, more results: accessibility means reaching a wider audience, including people with disabilities, older people or users with slow connections or outdated devices.
- Better SEO: many accessible features also improve search engine rankings.
- More effective user experience: accessible interfaces are often clearer and more intuitive for everyone.
- Corporate image: an inclusive brand is perceived as more responsible and caring.
What should companies do now?
The advice is to start now, with a progressive but well-structured approach. Here are some key steps:
- Assess the current situation: a technical audit can identify critical issues to be resolved.
- Train internal teams: those working on content and development must be familiar with good accessibility practices.
- Adapt digital tools: both code and content must comply with standards.
- Monitor and update: accessibility is an ongoing process, not a one-off activity.
In summary: as of 28 June 2025, digital accessibility will no longer be an option, but a concrete requirement for many realities.
Preparing in time means not only avoiding penalties, but also taking the opportunity to make your digital tools more open, functional and people-friendly.
