Barrierefreiheitsakt

Barrierefreiheitsakt is a term used to describe a legislative act intended to guarantee barrier-free access for people with disabilities and others with reduced mobility. Such an act would require the removal of obstacles in physical spaces, in information and communications, and in products and services to enable inclusive participation in society.

The scope typically covers physical accessibility of buildings, entrances, routes and transportation; digital accessibility of websites, apps and electronic documents; accessible administration, education, culture, housing and healthcare; as well as procurement rules that favour accessible design and solutions.

Core elements commonly associated with a Barrierefreiheitsakt include binding accessibility standards and conformity assessment, a phased timeline for implementation, regular monitoring and reporting, remedies and penalties for non-compliance, exemptions where barriers cannot be removed for technical or economic reasons, and accompanying funding or support programs to assist compliance.

Implementation and exact provisions vary by country. The concept is aligned with broader disability rights and accessibility policies, such as the European Accessibility Act (Directive 2019/882) and national measures that promote barrier-free access, including various national ordinances and guidelines. In practice, different jurisdictions may adopt statutes with similar aims but differing scopes, enforcement mechanisms and transition periods.

Critics often point to the cost of retrofits and the need for clear technical standards, while supporters emphasize long-term social and economic benefits through greater inclusion and accessibility.

See also: Barrierefreiheit, DIN 18040, EN 301 549, BITV 2.0, Europäische Barrierefreiheitsrichtlinie, Behindertengleichstellungsgesetz.