The Web Accessibility Directive (Directive (EU) 2016/2102) has been in force since 22 December 2016 and should provides people with disabilities with better access to websites and mobile apps of public services.The Directive obliges websites and apps of public sector bodies to meet specific technical accessibility standards. The technical background are is the HEN 301549 and therefor the WCAG 2.x AA. The directive obliged the member states to make a regular monitoring of a sample of websites in their countries to report it to the EU.  After the first year of reporting in the framework of WAD, what are  the lessons learned, what are the differences between the countries. Key questions after the first period are to be seen on the Commissions Website, and we want to discuss it from the standpoint of a practioners.Are the Directive and its implementing acts still relevant and fit for purpose, given other accessibility related laws and changes in technology?

• Has the Directive harmonised the web accessibility market?
• Has the Directive strengthened social inclusion – has it made it easier for persons with disabilities to access public services and information?
• Are further actions needed for a successful implementation?
• Can we ask the supporting tools creators about their impression, and what can their tools provide
• WAI
• WADCHER
• WAI-GUIDE
• WE4AUTHORS

Chairs

• 
  Klaus Höckner, Hilfsgemeinschaft der Blinden und Sehschwachen Österreichs
• 
  Werner Rosenberger, Hilfsgemeinschaft der Blinden und Sehschwachen Österreichs