New Association Promotes Accessibility in the German-Speaking Region

A new voice for accessibility: On October 14, 2026, the Verein zur Förderung der Barrierefreiheit (Association for the Promotion of Accessibility) officially launched. The association aims to establish accessibility as a mark of quality and a competitive factor in the German-speaking region, moving it beyond a purely regulatory obligation.

To achieve this, the association brings together perspectives that are often considered separately: science and education, business, the public sector, and users and their representative organizations. Its work focuses on three areas. First, building expertise and offering certifications. Second, political advocacy for accessibility. And third, a growing network of experts, organizations and people with and without disabilities who want to shape digital and physical participation together.

The association started with strong support: A number of organizations joined as launch members ahead of the official start, including axes4, Materna and Telekom. Since the launch, membership has been open to everyone who shares the goal of making accessibility a matter of course, regardless of company size, industry or prior experience.

More information and membership: verein-bf.eu