Navigating Digital Accessibility in Europe

Beyond WCAG: The Next Generation of Accessibility

Digital accessibility is increasingly critical for modern organisations. Teams generally understand the importance of meeting Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Yet, to genuinely grasp digital accessibility today, organisations must look beyond WCAG and embrace the broader, more comprehensive requirements of the European Accessibility Act (EAA), guided by EN 301 549 and EN 17161¹.

WCAG primarily covers web content elements such as colour contrasts, headings, navigation, and focus states—fundamental for accessible digital experiences but limited when viewed in isolation. Ensuring that a screen reader can navigate a website is the foundational starting point. Complete accessibility involves providing consistent, seamless experiences across all user interactions, from initial engagement to final transaction and support².

Understanding the Broader Scope of the EAA

The European Accessibility Act notably broadens digital accessibility expectations. EAA demands comprehensive accessibility across entire product and service lifecycles, including software applications, mobile apps, digital banking interfaces, e-books, and ticketing systems³.