Since June 2025, binding requirements for digital accessibility have been in effect in Switzerland. The Federal Act on the Elimination of Discrimination against People with Disabilities (BehiG) obliges public institutions as well as certain private providers of digital services that are accessible to the general public to implement accessibility.

What is digital accessibility?

Digital accessibility means that digital products – such as websites, mobile apps, or electronic documents – are accessible and usable for people with different impairments. This includes, for example:

• Visual impairments
• Hearing impairments
• Motor impairments
• Cognitive impairments
• Color blindness

The goal is to ensure that all people can access digital information and services on an equal basis.

The BehiG in Practice

The BehiG requires public institutions and certain companies in Switzerland to make their digital services accessible. Implementation is based on the eCH-0059 Accessibility Standard Version 3.0, which implements the internationally recognized WCAG 2.1 guidelines of the W3C.

For public institutions

All governmental bodies, authorities, cantons, and municipalities must provide their websites, mobile applications, and digital services in an accessible manner. Accessibility is not only seen as a legal requirement but also as part of their service commitment to the public.

For companies

Private providers that offer products or services to the public – such as banks, insurance companies, transportation providers, or online shops – are also required to implement digital accessibility requirements. This applies to all digital services accessible to the general public.

Exceptions

Smaller companies or services with a limited user base may in practice be subject to less stringent requirements. Nevertheless, it is advisable to implement accessibility early – for equal opportunities, better user experience, and legal certainty.

Why digital accessibility is important

Digital accessibility not only provides legal certainty but also offers clear benefits:

• Accessibility for all: Your services can be used by a wider audience.
• Optimized user experience: All users can understand and interact with content more easily.
• Compliance and legal security: You meet the requirements of the BehiG and avoid potential penalties.
• Innovation and future-readiness: Accessible solutions are often more flexible and technologically robust.

Conclusion

Digital accessibility has been mandatory in Switzerland since June 2025 and affects both public institutions and companies that make their digital services accessible to the general public. With the right solutions – from the Full Solution for large organizations to WayWidget for SMEs – you can bring your websites, apps, and digital offerings on the path to BehiG compliance, improve accessibility in the long term, and optimize the user experience for everyone.

While no single tool alone can guarantee full accessibility, WayWidget provides strong technical support and helps reduce many barriers.

However, full accessibility requires additional measures – technical, content-related, and organizational. Accessibility is therefore not only a legal requirement but also an opportunity: for greater reach, better compliance, and an inclusive digital presence.