Background & Purpose
The proposal is driven by the need to ensure that people with disabilities can access information and services, while also meeting accessibility requirements set by the European Union.
Proposals & Debate
The government wants to expand the legal scope to set requirements for how information is presented on packaging and in digital formats. This includes specific accessibility standards for e-books, e-commerce platforms, and a broader requirement for media providers to offer services like sign language interpretation and subtitling.
The Decision
The Parliament has taken the first of two required votes to change the constitution, meaning the proposal is now pending until after the next election. The changes will take effect on January 1, 2027, if the Parliament confirms the decision after the next election.
Does this affect you?
- People with disabilities: They will gain better access to digital services, e-books, and product information through mandatory accessibility standards.
- E-commerce and media companies: These businesses will need to adapt their platforms and services to meet new legal requirements for accessibility.
In Practice
- Companies may be required to provide product information in more accessible formats on packaging.
- E-commerce sites and e-books will need to meet new standards for digital accessibility.
- More media companies, beyond just public service, may be required to provide subtitling and interpretation services.
- The changes are scheduled to take full effect on January 1, 2027, provided the Parliament confirms the vote after the next election.