Web Accessibility in 2025: Why It's More Important Than Ever

Reading time: 5 minutes

Web Accessibility is no longer a niche topic. With the approaching European Accessibility Act 2025 and a growing digital society, barrier-free web design is becoming mandatory – legally, ethically, and economically.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

1 billion people worldwide live with some form of disability. That’s 15% of the world’s population. In Germany alone, there are about 10 million people – potential customers who are excluded from non-accessible websites.

But it’s not just about permanent disabilities:

• Temporary limitations: Broken arm, eye inflammation
• Situational limitations: Bright sun on the display, noisy environment
• Age-related limitations: Declining vision, motor skills

The European Accessibility Act 2025: What’s Coming?

Starting June 28, 2025, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) applies to all EU member states. The key points:

Who is affected?

• E-commerce websites
• Banking and financial services
• Telecommunications services
• E-books and e-readers
• Online ticketing (flights, trains, events)
• Streaming services

What are the requirements?

Websites must comply with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards:

• Perceivable (e.g., text alternatives for images)
• Operable (e.g., keyboard navigation)
• Understandable (e.g., clear error messages)
• Robust (e.g., compatibility with assistive technologies)

What are the consequences of non-compliance?

• Fines up to €100,000
• Negative publicity and reputation damage
• Lawsuits from affected individuals and organizations
• Exclusion from public tenders

The Business Case: Why Accessibility Pays Off

1. Greater Reach

With an accessible website, you reach 20% more potential customers. People with disabilities and their families have a purchasing power of over $13 trillion worldwide.

2. Better SEO

Many accessibility measures simultaneously improve your SEO:

• Alt texts help Google understand images
• Semantic HTML improves crawlability
• Clear structures reduce bounce rate

3. Better User Experience for Everyone

Accessible websites are easier for everyone to use:

• Clear navigation
• Readable fonts
• Intuitive forms
• Faster loading times

Conclusion: The Time to Act is Now

Web Accessibility is no longer an option – it’s a necessity. With the European Accessibility Act 2025 around the corner and an increasingly diverse user base, now is the perfect time to make your website accessible.

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