18/01/2026
In 2025–2026, new European accessibility regulations began applying more broadly to business websites, including many private companies in the Netherlands. The rules are based on WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and aim to ensure that digital services are usable by people with disabilities.
Many Dutch businesses were unaware that the regulations applied to them, assuming accessibility rules only affected government or large enterprises. As enforcement and audits increased, companies discovered their websites lacked required features such as sufficient color contrast, keyboard navigation, screen-reader compatibility, and clear form labels.
The situation led to a surge in last-minute website updates, accessibility scans, and UX changes. The case highlights how regulatory changes increasingly influence web design, UX decisions, and digital budgets — even for small and medium-sized businesses.
Is your website compliant?