Introduction to digital accessibility

In recent decades, concerns about the negative impacts business activities have on human rights have been gaining prominence on the global agenda. Gradually, international instruments were created, shaping what is now recognized as the business and human rights framework. This enshrines respect for human rights as a globally expected behavior for companies of all sizes, natures, locations, structures, and sectors, expectations reflected in what is known as Responsible Business Conduct (RBC).

Nowadays, permanent technological development and the hasty process of digitalization present an unavoidable scenario for the exercise of the most varied rights and democratic interests. From the Asociación por los Derechos Civiles (ADC) we strive for the defense and advancement of fundamental rights in Argentina and the region. Consequently, part of our activity is aimed at promoting the business and the human rights framework in general, and the United Nations Guiding Principles in particular, within the development and diffusion of digital technologies.

This report seeks to guide tech companies through an introduction to digital accessibility as a feature of Responsible Business Conduct. It does so in consideration of the particular relevance it acquires due to its cross-cutting nature, but also its deep relationship to the exercise of rights by all citizens. An approach to accessibility as a human right will thus be provided by inquiring into its definition and importance.