Thursday 02 April 2026 / 05:05
image

First Steps Towards Accessibility in Ukraine

27 March 2025

The first meeting of the National Council on Accessibility took place in Ukraine, featuring the First Lady Olena Zelenska and key state representatives.

Starting from 2023, all government websites and mobile applications must meet contemporary accessibility standards. This means that individuals with disabilities will be able to use digital services comfortably. To help government agencies implement these standards, a Digital Accessibility Competence Center was established in August 2024 based on Diia, with the support of UNDP, to provide training, consultations, and audits of government websites and services.

Digital education is another priority. The Diia.Education platform offers over 200 educational series with subtitles in Ukrainian and English. Special attention has been given to courses on digital accessibility: "Web Accessibility", "Barrier-Free Literacy", and "Government Without Barriers". Additionally, 20 courses are available in sign language, and all images on the platform come with alternative descriptions for individuals with visual impairments.

To ensure digital accessibility is anchored in legislation, the Ministry of Digital Transformation is preparing a draft law on "Digital Accessibility". This will outline clear rules and responsibilities for ensuring accessibility across all sectors. The document is expected to be submitted to the Verkhovna Rada by the end of 2025.

Accessibility is also crucial in Administrative Service Centers (ASC). Over the past two years, the level of accessibility for individuals with disabilities has increased by 16%. Currently, ASCs are equipped with technologies to serve visitors with visual and hearing impairments, as well as convenient spaces for the elderly and families with children, electronic queues, and consultations regarding online services. In 2025-2026, the Ministry of Digital Transformation plans to launch the flagship project "Barrier-Free ASC", which will further enhance access to administrative services.

Digital accessibility is not just about technology but also about respect, comfort, and equal opportunities for everyone. The Ministry of Digital Transformation, together with its partners, continues to work towards making digital services user-friendly and inclusive.

Initiated by the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, the National Strategy for Creating a Barrier-Free Environment in Ukraine until 2030 has been approved.