Digital Accessibility in Switzerland

Digital accessibility in Switzerland refers to the design and development of digital content and technology that can be used by individuals with disabilities, including those with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments. This includes ensuring that websites, mobile apps, and other digital platforms are accessible to users with assistive technologies such as screen readers, magnifiers, and alternative input devices.

Switzerland has a legal framework in place to support digital accessibility. The Federal Act on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (Disability Discrimination Act - DDA) requires that public bodies ensure that their websites and digital services are accessible to people with disabilities. The DDA also requires private businesses to make their websites and digital services accessible, if they offer goods or services to the public.

The Swiss Federal Council has also issued guidelines on digital accessibility, which provide recommendations on how to design and develop accessible digital content and services. These guidelines include best practices for accessible website design, mobile apps, and electronic documents, as well as information on testing and evaluating digital accessibility.

In addition to the legal framework, there are several organizations and initiatives in Switzerland that promote digital accessibility, such as the Swiss Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired (SAB), the Swiss Association for the Deaf (SGB-FSS), and the Swiss Centre for Accessible Technology (Swiss CAT). These organizations offer training, resources, and support for organizations and individuals working to improve digital accessibility.

Overall, Switzerland has a strong focus on digital accessibility, with a legal framework and guidelines in place to support it, as well as organizations and initiatives that promote it.

If you require any assistance in ensuring that your content, website, software and mobile apps accessible please reach out to us.