Thanks to the European Accessibility Act (EAA), things like cash machines, the 112 emergency number, public transport websites, and online shopping platforms must now work for everyone — including over 100 million EU citizens with disabilities. This isn’t just a vision anymore. It’s the law.
Accessibility in action: the EU law that could change everyday life for millions
A New Legal Reality in the EU
Starting summer 2025, EU countries must apply the EAA (Directive 2019/882) not just in theory but in real, enforceable terms. This means that banks, public transport providers, smartphone manufacturers, and digital service platforms can’t treat accessibility as a “nice-to-have” feature — it’s now a legal must.
The Act has a wide scope: it covers physical products like ATMs and ticket machines as well as digital services, including e-commerce apps and travel info systems. It applies to both public services and private companies, as long as they offer products or services that are widely used and socially important.
The goal? To ensure real inclusion for people with disabilities — not just on paper, but in everyday life.
112 for Everyone: Accessible Emergency Communication
One of the most powerful symbols of the new rules is the transformation of the 112 emergency number. Everyone — regardless of disability — must be able to reach emergency services via voice, text, or video, in real time, from anywhere in the EU.
It’s a technically complex task, but it’s essential for ensuring personal safety and the right to life. The 112 upgrade could even become a model for other sectors, such as healthcare and e-government.
But questions remain: will each country deliver? There’s no EU-wide data yet showing how well national 112 systems are meeting these new accessibility requirements.
Banking and ATMs: Not Just Online, Not Just for Some
Banks now have a legal duty to make all aspects of their services accessible. This includes multi-sensory ATMs (with voice commands, tactile feedback, accessible heights), and digital banking platforms designed so everyone can use them independently.
The EAA could have a real market impact: financial institutions that fail to adapt may face legal penalties — and lose customers, including those without official disability status who still benefit from accessible features.
Public Transport: Access Must Be Measured and Transparent
Public transport companies must now report regularly on how accessible their services are — from station ramps and lifts to real-time info screens and apps.
And the info itself must be accessible. Whether you’re checking if a station has step-free access or planning your journey online, the system must be intuitive and inclusive. That means easy-to-use ticket platforms, clear info displays, and apps that work with screen readers or voice assistants.
This is a major shift across the EU — one that could finally make travel fairer for all.
E-Commerce, media, tech: universal access, no excuses
The EAA isn’t just about public services — it also targets mainstream consumer products and platforms. If you’re selling tech to the masses, accessibility isn’t optional anymore.
So what does that mean?
- Online shops must allow blind or visually impaired users to make purchases without outside help.
- Video platforms must support subtitles and screen-reader-friendly layouts.
- E-books should come with high-contrast modes and compatibility with assistive tech.
But accessibility isn’t just about tools — it’s about knowledge. That’s why companies are now legally required to train their staff on accessibility and disability inclusion. It’s no longer a bonus; it’s part of doing business in Europe.
Celebrating the Change — and Staying Accountable
To mark this milestone, AccessibleEU hosted a series of public events in Brussels on 1 and 3 July, online and in person. These gatherings focused on how the law will impact real lives — and how EU countries can be held accountable for delivering on its promise.
Why does this matter? Because even the best law is useless if no one enforces it. Implementation is now the name of the game — and that means public institutions, civil society groups, and individuals with disabilities all have a part to play. Spotting gaps, calling them out, and demanding better is not only allowed — it’s essential.
Accessibility Is Everyone’s Future
The European Accessibility Act isn’t just about helping some people. It’s about creating a society where everyone — regardless of physical or sensory ability — can participate fully in public life, digital life, and the economy.
From calling for help to catching a train, managing your finances or shopping online — accessibility should be normal, not exceptional. Starting in 2025, the EU is taking a bold step to make that vision a reality.
Let’s make sure it’s not just a law on paper, but real change in action.
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