Legal Framework and Evolution

Regulatory Landscape

French law mandates accessibility:

2005 Disability Act

• Public buildings must be accessible
• 2015 deadline (widely missed)
• Penalties for non-compliance (rarely enforced)
• Exemptions for historic monuments

European Standards

• EN 301 549: Digital accessibility requirements
• Transport regulations
• Service standards
• Cross-border recognition needs

Implementation Reality

Government inspector admits frustration: "The law exists, but enforcement lacks teeth. We grant exemptions too easily. 'Technical impossibility' becomes an excuse for inaction. Meanwhile, other countries prove historic sites can be made accessible."

Tourism-Specific Initiatives

Tourisme & Handicap Label

• 5,500 certified establishments
• Four disability categories covered
• Rigorous evaluation process
• Marketing advantage for certified sites

Destination for All Label

• Entire destinations evaluated
• Comprehensive accessibility approach
• Only 15 French destinations certified
• International recognition growing