The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a legislative document with a great purpose—a commitment to change and a promise of a more barrier-free Europe.
In March 2021, the European Commission took a monumental step towards building a more inclusive society with the adoption of the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030. This initiative is a beacon of progress, aiming to improve the lives of persons with disabilities in Europe and beyond. At the core of this strategic endeavour lies the European Accessibility Act (EAA). (1)
It mandates the accessibility of products and services to ensure that everyone, including people with disabilities and the ageing population, can partake fully in society. From manufacturers to banking services, EAA covers a wide array of areas, directly impacting the daily lives of millions.
A Catalyst for Business Transformation
For businesses across EU member states, the European Accessibility Act is a call to action. It necessitates adjustments and innovations in how products and services are designed, marketed, and delivered. But more than a regulatory requirement, it presents an opportunity for businesses to expand their reach, tap into previously underserved markets, and to innovate towards inclusion and social sustainability.
The Humane Side of EAA
At its heart, the European Accessibility Act is about people – acknowledging the challenges faced by those living with disabilities or those experiencing the limitations that come with age. It recognizes the right of every individual to live with dignity and engage fully in all aspects of life without facing barriers.
The adoption of the EAA sends a powerful message: inclusion is non-negotiable. It’s a step towards realizing the vision outlined in the European Pillar of Social Rights, which champions fair and well-functioning labour markets and welfare systems, grounded in the principles of fairness and solidarity. (2)
As we continue to work for social sustainability and disability inclusion, let us celebrate the advancements brought forth by the European Accessibility Act. It’s not just a win for those directly impacted; it’s a win for businesses and for society as a whole.
About Access4you
Businesses of all segments can make real social impact thanks to accessibility certificates such as the Access4you Certification, which is meant to benefit both society and business as a whole.
Access4you International is a social impact company that assesses, certifies, and qualifies the accessibility of the built environment. The Access4you Certification testifies that the building owner prioritizes inclusion and ensures that detailed and reliable accessibility information about the location is available for 8+1 groups with accessibility needs: Wheelchair users; the Elderly and people with limited mobility; the Blind; visually impaired people, the Deaf, the hard of hearing; people with cognitive impairments; people pushing prams; and people with service dogs.
Sources
- European Commission. (2021, March 3). Commission proposes a European Child Guarantee and an updated strategy for fighting poverty and social exclusion. European Commission. https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_810
- European Commission. (n.d.). European Pillar of Social Rights – Building a fairer and more inclusive European Union. European Commission. https://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1606&langId=en