Why accessibility is important now
Accessibility means: a website that can be used by everyone - even without a mouse, with a screen reader or with restricted vision.
This affects more people than you might think:
15-20% of the population are dependent on barrier-free access - over 100 million people in Europe alone.
Despite this, studies show that over 96% of websites are not accessible
Those who ignore the topic are therefore excluding a large part of their target group - without even realizing it. (Source: WebAIM 2024).
What is mandatory from 2025?
The European Accessibility Act obliges many companies to make their websites accessible. This includes in particular
- Online stores
- Banks & Insurances
- Transportation and telecom providers
- Government-related services
Those who do not meet these requirements must expect legal consequences - or simply lose users.
A simple solution for your website
Accessibility doesn't have to be a mammoth project. With the right structure, a few targeted adjustments and modern tools, you can make your website more accessible step by step - without sacrificing the design.
I specialize in creating websites that are not only visually appealing, but also functional and accessible.
I implement simple, effective solutions directly for my clients - individually tailored to their system.
So you don't have to struggle through the technical requirements yourself - I'll take care of it.
Accessibility in Switzerland - mandatory or optional?
In Switzerland, there is currently no general legal obligation for accessibility for private companies. However, there are exceptions and developments that you should be aware of:
For public authorities and publicly funded websites
According to the Federal Act on the Elimination of Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (BehiG), federal authorities are obliged to make their digital content accessible.
Publicly funded projects (e.g. educational institutions, transport companies with subsidies) must also offer accessible websites.
For private companies (e.g. SMEs, agencies)
There is currently no legal obligation.
But: Anyone who operates internationally or sells products online (especially in the EU) must comply with the new EU Accessibility Act (EAA) - this will become binding from June 2025.
Conclusion for you as a web provider
Even though accessibility is not (yet) mandatory for SMEs in Switzerland:
soon to be mandatory in the EU (relevant for exporting companies, e.g. with an online store)
a sign of professionalism, inclusion and brand awareness
a plus point in search engine optimization (SEO)
So you can offer clear added value with the topic, even before it becomes mandatory.
Act now instead of catching up later
The sooner you deal with the topic, the more relaxed it will be - and the better your website will be positioned.
If you want to know how accessible your website is today, get in touch. I will advise you personally - with clear solutions and concrete tools.
