The year 2023 marks a decisive turning point in the field of digital accessibility in France, with the introduction of significant legislative changes aimed at enhancing the accessibility of digital services for all, especially for people with disabilities.
1. Strengthened Obligations with New Sanctions
As of 2024, digital accessibility of public administration websites will no longer be just an intention but a legal requirement. The ratification of ordinance No. 2023-859 strengthens the accessibility requirements already in force since 2005, with stricter penalties for non-compliance.
2. Extension of Accessibility Obligations
The new regulations extend digital accessibility obligations to a wider range of services, covering sectors such as telecommunications, audiovisual media, e-commerce, banking services, and transportation. These obligations now apply to all entities, regardless of their size, with some exceptions for very small businesses.
3. Increased Role of Regulatory Authorities
The monitoring and enforcement of these obligations are entrusted to several authorities, including ARCOM, DGCCRF, ARCEP, ACPR, AMF, and the Bank of France. These authorities are now equipped with extended powers to identify, ascertain shortcomings, and impose sanctions.
4. Impact on Businesses
Businesses, especially those generating significant revenue in France, must comply with these regulations, or face financial penalties. The obligations include, among others, establishing accessibility statements and annual action plans to ensure the accessibility of their digital services.
5. A Digital Inclusion Strategy
This regulatory evolution is part of an overarching strategy aimed at ensuring that digital services are accessible to all, including people with disabilities. It reflects France’s commitment to digital inclusion and upholding fundamental rights.
Digital accessibility is now at the forefront of the priorities of the French government, reflecting a strong commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities in the digital age. Entities affected must take proactive measures to comply with these legal requirements and contribute to building a digital space that is open and accessible to all. The effective implementation of these regulations poses a challenge but also a significant opportunity to improve digital accessibility for the benefit of all.
It’s a call to action: for administrations, businesses, and all entities involved, the time has come to accelerate their efforts towards full digital accessibility, thereby ensuring equal access to digital services for every citizen.
