International Day of Persons with Disabilities: A Focus on Digital Inclusion

Today, on December 3rd, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I want to address a topic that is particularly close to my heart: digital inclusion. This day reminds us that there are still too many barriers preventing people with disabilities from accessing information and services online. But what does inclusion in the digital world truly mean, and why is it more than just a buzzword?

The Term “Inclusion”: A Critical Perspective

I recently read a statement that made me pause for thought. A person with a chronic illness said:

I don’t want inclusion – I want respect.

And I get it. Inclusion often implies that someone is “outside” and needs to be “brought in.” But why should we have to justify why we belong? People with disabilities are an integral part of society – in the workplace, in private life, and in the digital world.

I completely agree. We are already here. We don’t need to be “included” – we need respect, understanding, and above all, visibility.

Digital Accessibility: Still a Challenge

However – and this is an important distinction – when it comes to the digital world, I experience a different reality. Still, less than 10% of websites are accessible, meaning millions of people are excluded. This happens despite living in an era where technology makes almost anything possible. People with disabilities, especially those with invisible impairments, are often “invisible” in the digital space.

They face barriers that aren’t always obvious – from missing alternative text for images to complex navigation structures that are hard to understand.

And this is where the concept of digital inclusion comes in. It’s not about people with disabilities not belonging – they are simply excluded and forgotten by insufficient digital offerings. That’s why digital accessibility is so crucial. People with disabilities are not “different” – they are part of society. But the digital world often fails to consider them.

Why Web Inclusion Is Necessary – and How You Can Be Part of the Solution

Digital inclusion goes far beyond legal requirements. It’s about creating an internet that is accessible to everyone. An internet that provides people with disabilities the same opportunities for participation as everyone else.

We all share responsibility for this change. If you’re a developer or web agency and haven’t yet prioritized digital accessibility, now is the time to start.

With Accesstra, you have a tool that not only helps you meet legal requirements but also enables you to actively promote digital inclusion. By removing barriers on your website, you not only do something good for your users but also position yourself as a forward-thinking provider.

Conclusion: Breaking Down Barriers Together – for an Inclusive Digital Future

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is an opportunity to reflect on barriers – both in real life and in the digital space. We cannot be content with leaving part of society “outside.” We must break down digital barriers and create true inclusion.