The Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG), which comes into force on June 28, 2025, sets binding requirements for the accessibility of products and services. It is based on EU Directive 2019/882 (European Accessibility Act) and aims to improve accessibility in various areas of life. The aim is to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to offers and services.
The law affects a wide range of products and services. These include self-service terminals, telecommunications services, banking services, online stores and much more. Websites and mobile applications that offer e-commerce services must also be designed to be accessible. The aim is to encourage companies and service providers to adapt their offerings to the new standards in order to ensure greater accessibility.
Compliance with the legal requirements is checked by the respective market surveillance authorities. If requirements are not met, corrective measures may be necessary. The law also provides for sanctions for violations, which aim to promote compliance and gradually improve accessibility. In cases of serious violations, the authorities have the option of imposing high fines of up to 100,000 euros or other legal consequences, including a ban on distribution.
The BFSG offers companies the opportunity to adapt to changing social and regulatory conditions. At the same time, implementing the requirements poses a challenge, as both technical and organizational adjustments may be necessary.
Further information can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs:
https://www.bmas.de/DE/Service/Gesetze-und-Gesetzesvorhaben/barrierefreiheitsstaerkungsgesetz.html
Author: Marc Gennat