Only a Third of Top German Webshops Accessible for Keyboard Users Despite Approaching Legal Deadline
Online retailers continue to lack accessibility, disregarding fresh legislation intended to make digital spaces more accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Hey there! Let's talk about digital accessibility in Germany's webshops.
Just before the Barrier-Free Strengthening Act kicks in, the federal law that mirrors the European Accessibility Act requirements, many of the major German online shops still haven't made their digital products and services accessible using only a keyboard.
That's according to a study by Google, "Aktion Mensch," and the Pfennigparade Foundation, presented in Berlin. Only about 30% of the 65 most-visited German online shops pass this test, meaning they can be navigated without a mouse.
For individuals with disabilities, keyboard accessibility is crucial for smooth navigation. While the percentage has seen an improvement from last year's figure, only 20% of popular webshops were fully accessible in 2024.
The implications of this are significant, as keyboard accessibility isn't just about easier navigation - it's about digital inclusion. The Barrier-Free Strengthening Act aims to ensure digital services are accessible to all, regardless of ability.
Sources: ntv.de
In the spirit of keeping it real, it's worth mentioning that the Barrier-Free Strengthening Act requires all private companies offering public services, including major e-commerce platforms, banks, transport, and telecommunications providers, to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA. This includes making all website functions keyboard-navigable.
Come June 2025, these accessibility rules become fully enforceable across Europe, so digital inclusion isn't just a nice-to-have - it's mandated by law. And, for big-name German webshops, it's time to step up and make their Digital Shopfronts barrier-free for all users.
- In the wake of the Barrier-Free Strengthening Act, which is set to enforce the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA, it's crucial for major e-commerce platforms in Germany to implement an employment policy that ensures the development of keyboard-accessible digital products and services, contributing to a more inclusive lifestyle in the digital world.
- The lack of keyboards-accessible webshops in Germany, as highlighted by the study presented in Berlin, underscores the need for a comprehensive community policy that addresses digital accessibility issues, aligning with the general-news agenda of promoting technology that benefits all users, regardless of their abilities.
