Wetteraukreis sets new standards for digital accessibility with Eye-Able!

Wetteraukreis sets new standards for digital accessibility with Eye-Able!

In the digital age, access to information is extremely important for everyone. The Wetteraukreis recently took a significant step in this direction and equipped its Internet and intranet presence with the “Eye-Able” program. This tool was specifically developed to enable people with disabilities to use online offerings barrier-free. District Administrator Jan Weckler emphasizes: “Digital participation is a human right,” and this is reflected in the new functions that Eye-Able offers. This means that people with visual or hearing impairments, language barriers or cognitive limitations receive the support they need when surfing the Internet, as Wetterau.news reports.

The implementation of Eye-Able not only shows the commitment to digital inclusion, but is also an important sign of citizen-oriented administration. Various functions are available to users on the Wetteraukreis homepage: from translating content into different languages ​​and displaying texts in simple, citizen-friendly language to a reading function and individual adjustments - for example in font size and contrast.

Accessibility in Germany

In total, around 13 million people in Germany are affected by impairments. These people are often confronted with obstacles that make it difficult for them to lead an independent and equal life. Access to information, as promoted by the Wetteraukreis's new initiative, is only one aspect of accessibility, which also includes mobility, health and leisure activities. The Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (BMAS) has launched a “Federal Barrier Freedom Initiative” with the aim of breaking down barriers and promoting participation for everyone.

In order to anchor accessibility in everyday life, various social actors are required. As part of this initiative, the federal government, states, municipalities, companies and people with disabilities work together to develop solutions and promote their implementation.

Federal Participation Prize 2025

Speaking of inclusion: Particularly impressive projects that promote digital participation were recently awarded the Federal Participation Prize 2025. This prize, awarded by the BMAS, aims to recognize good examples and model projects for inclusive social spaces. The winners are:

• 1. Preis: In der Gemeinde leben gGmbH, Düsseldorf, mit dem Projekt PIKSL Labor.
• 2. Preis: Bundesverband für körper- und mehrfachbehinderte Menschen e.V., Düsseldorf, mit der App „bvkm aktiv“.
• 3. Preis: Zentrum für Inklusion, Weinheim, mit dem Projekt „Mobiles Medienlabor – Medienbildung für Alle“.

These award winners show how innovative approaches can promote the digital participation of people with disabilities in education and work, thereby underlining the relevance of accessibility in society. More information about the projects can be found on the BMAS website:

The integration of such digital tools and continuous work on accessibility are crucial steps towards creating an inclusive society in which every person can live independently and equally.