In June 2025, European countries will implement a major change in digital accessibility with its new web law under the European Accessibility Act 2025. The Barrierefreie-Informationstechnik-Verordnung (BITV 2.0), or Accessible Information Technology Ordinance, will mandate that all websites and mobile apps be accessible to people with disabilities. This regulation aligns with the European Accessibility Act and extends beyond public sector organizations to impact private businesses serving the public. Here’s what you need to know.
Web accessibility: what is it and why is it important?
Web accessibility means ensuring that digital content websites, mobile apps, multimedia is usable by people with various disabilities, including visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments. By creating accessible websites, you ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can access information and interact with online services. This goes beyond legal compliance; it’s about creating a more inclusive and equitable digital experience for all.
The BITV 2.0 and the BFSG
The Barrier-Free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV) 2.0 law, along with the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) or Accessibility Strengthening Act, introduces more strict accessibility requirements. The BFSG expands accessibility regulations to cover not just websites but also hardware, software, and services. By June 2025, all public sector websites and apps must comply with these standards. Notably, the BFSG imposes fines up to €100,000 for non-compliance, making it crucial for organizations to meet these requirements.
Key Requirements for BITV 2.0 Compliance
The law enforces compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at level AA. This includes:
- Perceivable: Information must be presented in ways that users can perceive, such as using alternative text for images.
- Operable: All features must be operable with a keyboard, supporting assistive technologies like screen readers.
- Understandable: Content must be clear and easy to understand for all users.
- Robust: Content must work across different devices, browsers, and assistive technologies.
Additionally, organizations must offer accessible alternatives for multimedia content (e.g., captions for videos) and ensure their websites can be navigated by keyboard and assistive technologies.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Failure to comply with the BITV 2.0 law can lead to penalties, including fines up to €100,000 under the BFSG. Not only can you face financial penalties, but non-compliance can also damage your organization’s reputation and limit access to public sector contracts.
Who Is Affected?
The law primarily affects public sector organizations, including government websites, educational institutions, and public service providers. However, private sector businesses that offer public-facing services such as e-commerce sites, health service providers, or educational platforms are also encouraged to comply with BITV standards, especially as part of corporate social responsibility or consumer advocacy.
Ensuring Accessibility: Key Steps to Take
- Audit Your Website: Use tools like WAVE or Axe to check your website’s accessibility and ensure it meets WCAG 2.1 standards.
- Train Your Team: Ensure that designers, developers, and content creators are trained in accessibility best practices.
- Regular Monitoring: Conduct periodic audits and update accessibility reports to stay compliant and fix any issues promptly.
Conclusion
The BITV 2.0 law and BFSG represent a significant step forward in ensuring digital accessibility in Germany. Organizations must prepare for the June 2025 deadline to avoid penalties and foster an inclusive online environment. Compliance with accessibility standards will not only help you avoid fines but will also open up your services to a broader audience, improving user experience for everyone.
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