A quick guide to WCAG and the EAA
If your work involves running a website you are probably well aware that starting June 28, 2025 the EU is implementing stricter accessibility requirements. The change is aimed at making digital products and services more accessible to people with disabilities. The rules are based on two major frameworks: WCAG and the European Accessibility Act (EAA). Here's what you need to know.
WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is an international standard for building websites and apps that everyone can use. WCAG is in turn part of EN 301 549, the EU’s accessibility standard for digital tools and services.
The EU follows WCAG 2.1 Level AA, which is built around four key principles:
- Perceivable: Users must be able to see or hear your content.
- Operable: It must be easy to navigate — with keyboard, screen reader, or other tools.
- Understandable: Your content and interface should make sense.
- Robust: It should work reliably across devices and assistive tech.
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a law that requires many businesses to make products and services accessible. If you’re offering any of the following, you’re likely covered:
- Websites and apps
- E-books and e-readers
- Online stores
- Banking services and ATMs
- Ticket machines and transport services
- WCAG is the international web standard for accessibility.
- EN 301 549 is the European standars for accessibility (not only for the web)
- EAA is the law requiring organisations to implements these standards.
Make sure your website and apps meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards, with alt text, keyboard navigation, and clear design. If you're in e-commerce, transport, or financial services, the EAA likely applies to you. If you are not part of the sectors, there’s still good reasons to support WCAG 2.1
