guide
WAD on Astro: complete compliance checklist
Implementing WAD compliance on Astro means addressing the platform's specific failure modes (inaccessible interactive islands, theme inconsistency) while applying EU Web Accessibility Directive success criteria across content, code, and editorial workflow.
WAD in 60 seconds
The EU Web Accessibility Directive (Directive (EU) 2016/2102) requires public-sector bodies in all EU member states to make their websites and mobile apps accessible per EN 301 549, with mandatory accessibility statements and a complaints mechanism — operative since September 2018 for new sites and September 2020 for all sites.
Astro accessibility — what you are starting with
Astro's zero-JS-by-default model is a structural accessibility advantage. Failures originate in interactive islands and theme/template choices.
WAD setup checklist for Astro
1. Use semantic HTML in .astro components: Native elements first.
Common WAD failures on Astro
• Inaccessible interactive islands
• Theme inconsistency
Putting it together
Combine WAD's Level AA requirements with Astro's native tooling. Bake accessibility into your component library and editorial workflow; instrument axe-core in CI for regression.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Cited answers. Sourced. Updated as standards and case law change.
Is Astro WAD-compliant out of the box?
Astro's zero-JS default produces highly parseable HTML. Interactive components are the variable.
What is the easiest path to WAD compliance on Astro?
Start with the platform's most-accessible default theme (where applicable), audit each installed plugin/extension/module, train content authors on alt text and heading hierarchy, and instrument axe-core in your CI pipeline.
Is Astro accessible?
Astro's zero-JS default produces highly parseable HTML. Interactive components are the variable.
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