Introduction
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a European Directive that commences on 28 June 2025. The EAA is formally known as Directive (EU) 2019/882 on the Accessibility Requirements of Products and Services. In Ireland, the EAA was transposed into Irish Law through Statutory Instrument No. 636 of 2023.
There are many reasons why accessibility should matter to you.
It's the law – and the deadline is coming soon
Starting 28 June 2025, products and services that are covered under the European Accessibility Act (EAA) will be obligated to comply with its accessibility requirements. If your products or services fall under this directive, compliance won’t be optional—it will be mandatory.
You’ll need it to win public contracts
Want to bid for government or public sector contracts after 28 June 2025? You will need to prove that your products or services are compliant with the accessibility requirements of the EAA.
It’s good for business
Research indicates that more than one quarter of the EU population aged 16 years and over in the EU are disabled to some degree. Designing with accessibility in mind allows you to reach more customers, giving your business a competitive edge and room to grow.
Services covered by the EAA must use accessible products in their service. This will create opportunities for companies offering EAA-compliant products to win contracts.
It’s about rights – and responsibility
The right to Accessibility is outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). The EU and all its member states are parties to the UNCRPD.
It’s simply the right thing to do
Accessibility is about inclusion. When products and services aren’t accessible, people with disabilities are unfairly excluded from participating in everyday life. Compliance means making a real difference – not just ticking a box but helping create a more equal society.