Web accessibility: mandatory or inclusion at last?

From June 2025, it's getting serious: accessibility is no longer an option, it's the law. But what is actually behind it - and why is it about more than just contrast values and alt texts?

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Between law and society: why we need to talk about digital participation now

Accessibility on the web - sounds technical at first. But it is deeply political. Because it's about nothing less than the question: who is allowed to play online and who is left out?

What has so far often appeared as a nice addition in UX briefings will be June 28, 2025 a legal obligation. The reason for this: the Accessibility Reinforcement Act (BFSG), the European Accessibility Act into German law. Sounds cumbersome? It is. But it's also long overdue.

Who has to do what by when?

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

• Online stores

• Booking systems

• Customer portals

• Banking apps

• Streaming services

• and much more.

Microenterprises (less than 10 employees, less than 2 million turnover) are exempt from the service obligation - but not if they sell digital products. So if your website is more than just a pretty one-pager with an imprint, you should act now at the latest.

What does „barrier-free“ actually mean?

Accessible is not the same as low-barrier. It is not enough to install a contrast control somewhere or to make the menu large. The requirements are based on the European standard EN 301 549, which in turn refer to the WCAG 2.1 (Level AA) refers to. It sounds like a policy tactic, but basically it means:

• PerceptibleContent is accessible to all senses (e.g. screen reader friendly).

• OperableNavigation also works without a mouse - e.g. via keyboard.

• UnderstandableClear structures, simple language, consistent design.

• RobustWorks on all devices and with assistance software.

In other words: your website should not only be beautiful, but also usable for all whether someone is blind, has limited motor skills or is simply using a smartphone.

And what happens if you don't do it?

Then it gets expensive. The law provides for fines of up to 100,000 euros before. In addition, there are potential lawsuits, public pressure and - let's be honest - an image that you can save yourself.

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

Good accessibility is not extra work - it's better UX

The narrative of annoying additional effort is long outdated. This is because many accessibility measures improve the user experience for all.

A few examples:

• Alt texts? Also great for SEO.

• Structured content? Also makes sense on a cell phone.

• Easy to read colors and contrasts? Thank you, even when it's sunny outside!

Those who think barrier-free, think user-centered - and this is not a cost driver, but a conversion booster.

It's not about duty - it's about attitude

Accessibility is not a to-do for the next quarter. It is an expression of it, how we want to communicate digitally. Inclusive. Appreciative. And professional.

Sure, you can google another accessibility checklist or hope for the next template. Or you can tackle the issue with us - strategically, thoughtfully, with a sense of what is feasible.

Because designing for accessibility does not mean doing more - it means do it right from the start.

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

Whether you want to know where you stand or are already thinking about implementation, we at oha! analyze your website for digital accessibility - with a clear audit, priority list and concrete recommendations. Legally compliant, practical and without agency bullshit.

👉 Request an audit now