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BITV 2.0: Accessibility Regulation for Public Sector Digital Services

The BITV 2.0 is the primary regulation in Germany regarding the accessibility of digital services in the public sector. It specifies the requirements of the Disability Equality Act (BGG) and ensures that websites, mobile applications, and digitally supported administrative processes are accessible to all citizens. While the BFSG mainly addresses the private sector, the BITV 2.0 is the binding guideline for the public sector.

Who is required to comply with BITV 2.0?

Authorities and Public Institutions

The primary entities obliged to follow BITV 2.0 are federal authorities, offices, and public institutions. This also includes corporations, public law institutions, and foundations that perform sovereign tasks.

Funded Projects and Recipients

Private organizations or associations may also fall under BITV obligations if they are largely funded by public funds or carry out public tasks on behalf of the state.

Municipal Portals and Educational Institutions

Many information portals of cities, municipalities, schools, or municipal enterprises use modern content management systems such as WordPress. These portals must also meet strict accessibility requirements to ensure non-discriminatory access to information for all citizens.

Technical Requirements of BITV 2.0

Foundation: EN 301 549 and WCAG 2.1 AA

Technically, BITV 2.0 refers to the European standard EN 301 549. In practice, this means strict compliance with WCAG 2.1 at AA level for website operators.

Mandatory Accessibility Statement

A key element of BITV 2.0 is the obligation to publish a detailed accessibility statement. It must document the current state of technical accessibility, list potential barriers, and be easily findable by users.

Required Feedback Mechanism

Public bodies must provide a contact channel through which users can report barriers directly. If a response is inadequate or absent, the regulation allows for an official conciliation procedure.

Implementing BITV 2.0 in WordPress with MH-Accessibility Pro

For public sector information portals and websites based on WordPress, MH-Accessibility Pro offers an efficient solution to support BITV 2.0 compliance:

  • Improved Perceptibility: Tools like the Dyslexia Mode or custom contrast adjustments help citizens with different visual and cognitive needs access content more easily.

  • Structure and Focus: Features that highlight headings and provide clear focus indicators ensure the required usability for keyboard users.

  • Legally Compliant Documentation: With the integrated Statement Generator (see Features), you can quickly and easily create the necessary accessibility statement.

Conclusion: Accessibility as a Public Mandate

BITV 2.0 represents a legal obligation for digital public administration that excludes no one. For WordPress website operators in the public sector, MH-Accessibility Pro is the ideal tool to implement this mandate with minimal technical effort and maximum impact.

Planning a public web project? Ensure that your site meets BITV 2.0 requirements and operates legally. MH-Accessibility can help.