Between Law and Society: Why We Need to Talk About Digital Participation Now

Web accessibility – sounds technical at first. But it is deeply political. Because it is about nothing less than the question: Who is allowed to participate online, and who is left out?

What used to often appear as a nice-to-have addition in UX briefs will become a legal requirement from 28 June 2025. The reason: the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG), which transposes the European Accessibility Act into German law. Sounds cumbersome? It is. But also long overdue.

Who must do what by when?

Quite a few. The BFSG affects companies that offer digital products or services to consumers. That means:

• Online shops

• Booking systems

• Customer portals

• Banking apps

• Streaming services

• and much more

Micro-enterprises (fewer than 10 employees, under €2m turnover) are exempt from the service requirements – but not if they sell digital products. So if your website is more than just a pretty one-pager with an imprint, you should take action now at the latest.

What does “accessible” actually mean in concrete terms?

Accessible is not just barrier-reduced. It is not enough to simply slap on a contrast toggle somewhere or make the menu large. The requirements are based on the European standard EN 301 549, which in turn refers to WCAG 2.1 (Level AA). Sounds like guideline staccato, but basically means:

• Perceivable: Content is accessible to all senses (e.g. screen reader-friendly).

• Operable: Navigation works without a mouse too – e.g. via keyboard.

• Understandable: Clear structures, plain language, consistent design.

• Robust: Works across all devices and with assistive software.

Or in other words: Your website shouldn't just be pretty, but usable for everyone – whether someone is blind, has motor impairments, or is simply on their smartphone on the go.

And what happens if you don’t do it?

Then it gets expensive. The law provides for fines of up to €100,000. Add to that potential lawsuits, public pressure and – let's be honest – a blow to your reputation you can well do without.

Because in 2025, accessibility is becoming not only a legal, but also a social expectation. If you exclude people, you lose. Period.

Good accessibility is not extra effort – it is better UX

The narrative of cumbersome extra work is long outdated. Because many accessibility measures improve the user experience for everyone.

A few examples:

• Alt texts? Also great for SEO.

• Structured content? Makes sense on mobile too.

• Easily readable colours and contrasts? Thank you, even in bright sunshine outdoors!

Thinking accessibly means thinking user-centric – and that’s not a cost driver, but a conversion booster.

It’s not about obligation – it’s about attitude

Accessibility isn't a to-do for next quarter. It is an expression of how we want to communicate digitally. Inclusively. Respectfully. And professionally.

Sure, you can google another accessibility checklist now or hope for the next template. Or you can tackle the issue with us – strategically, thoroughly, with a focus on what's viable.

Because designing accessibly doesn't mean doing more – it means doing it right from the start.

Your website is not (yet) accessible? Then it’s high time.

Whether you want to know where you stand or are already planning the concrete implementation: At oha!, we analyse your website for digital accessibility – with a clear audit, prioritised action list, and concrete recommendations. Legally compliant, workable, and without agency bullshit.

👉 Request audit now