Accessibility legislation: Croatia
The Act on Accessibility Requirements for Products and Services , Croatia’s digital accessibility regulation is governed by the State Inspectorate and has been enforced since September 23, 2019. The most recent amendment to this law was made on June 28, 2022.
Scope of application
The regulation mandates that a range of digital content and services must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. It applies specifically to public sector bodies, requiring accessibility compliance for websites and mobile applications. It includes ensuring that digital services, which are crucial for public use or designed to meet the needs of persons with disabilities, are accessible. The law mandates that all digital content related to key Internet administrative functions within educational institutions such as kindergartens, primary and secondary schools, and student dormitories must comply with accessibility standards.
While the current regulation focuses primarily on public sector bodies, extending these requirements to the private sector remains a topic of active discussion. Future amendments or new legislation are expected to expand the scope to include businesses and organizations providing essential services, such as e-commerce, banking, and telecommunications. This anticipated shift reflects a growing recognition of the importance of ensuring equitable access to digital resources across all sectors, not just those funded by public means. Such changes would align with broader international accessibility frameworks, fostering inclusivity on a larger scale.
Exceptions
This decree does not apply to the contents of the following websites and mobile applications:
- The Law excludes certain websites and mobile software, including those of public radio/TV, non-crucial civil society organizations, and educational institutions
- Exemptions for content published before set dates: office files before 09/23/2018, pre-recorded media before 09/23/2020, live media content, and internet maps provided accessible key info exists
- Third-party content not funded/developed by public sector bodies, and heritage collection reproductions that cannot comply due to preservation or lack of cost-effective accessibility solutions, are exempt
- Private pages not public before 09/23/2019 and archives (content not required for active procedures and not updated post 09/23/2019) are not covered by the Law
Fines and penalties
Fines for noncompliance range from HRK 2,000.00 (about €270) to HRK 50,000.00 (about €6600) for public sector bodies that commit misdemeanors by failing to comply with accessibility requirements. Specific misdemeanors include not ensuring the accessibility of websites and mobile software, failing to assess the burden of compliance, not publishing or updating accessibility statements, and not providing or responding to notifications related to accessibility non-compliance. Additionally, responsible persons within these bodies can be fined from HRK 500.00 (about €67) to HRK 5,000.00 (about €675) for related misdemeanors.
Reporting
Companies are obliged to publish and regularly update a detailed, comprehensive and clear accessibility statement regarding the compliance of their websites, platforms or mobile applications with the provisions of this Act.
The accessibility statement must contain:
- Compliance declaration: A summary of the site’s adherence to standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
- Accessibility features: A listing of the site’s accessible functions, demonstrating how the site supports users with disabilities
- Contact information: Clear points of contact for user feedback, allowing users to report issues or request assistance
- Continuous improvement plans: An outline of ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility, reinforcing the commitment to creating inclusive digital environments
If users encounter accessibility barriers or wish to submit a complaint regarding non-compliance, they may contact the competent authority, the State Inspectorate. Complaints can be submitted via:
Email: pristupacnost@dirh.hr
Phone number: +385 1 2375 100
Official website: https://inspektorat.gov.hr/
Address: Šubićeva 29, 10 000 Zagreb
Compliance with the Act on Accessibility Requirements for Products and Services requires a clear Accessibility Statement. Not sure where to start? Use our Free Accessibility Statement Generator to create one in minutes.
For the latest and most accurate information on digital accessibility requirements, please refer to the official documentation provided by the Croatian government.