The European Electronic Communication Code (2018/1972/EU) provides that Member States should promote equivalence of access and choice for end users with disabilities.

The report identifies the solutions available in Member States to meet the needs of users with disabilities and provides information on the availability and affordability of specific equipment and services that enhance equivalent access.

The aim of the final report will be to present an inventory of measures and initiatives that National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) might consider when evaluating any action to be pursued under the terms of the relevant legislative provisions.

BEREC clarifies that, in the context of this report, “equivalence” means equivalent access to and choice of electronic communications services for end users with disabilities, irrespective of any additional costs incurred in providing them. This may be achieved by implementing specific solutions for end users with disabilities, which do not necessarily coincide with those available to other end users. The consultation is open until 15 August 2022. For information on how to respond to the consultation and a link to the draft report, click here.