CBC Strengthens Commitment to Accessibility Across Digital Platforms

CBC has reaffirmed its dedication to creating universally accessible media products for all Canadians, with a particular focus on serving individuals with visual, hearing, motor and cognitive challenges.

The national public broadcaster has implemented several key accessibility features across its platforms, most notably expanding its Closed Captioning and Described Video services for numerous shows available on CBC Gem, the network’s streaming platform.

“Accessibility isn’t an afterthought for us—it’s fundamental to our mandate as Canada’s public broadcaster,” said a CBC representative in a recent statement. “We believe everyone in Canada deserves equal access to information, entertainment and cultural content regardless of ability.”

CBC Gem, which has seen substantial growth in viewership since its launch, now features an expanded library of programming with accessibility options. The enhanced services come as streaming platforms face increasing pressure from advocacy groups and regulatory bodies to improve accessibility features.

Industry analysts note that CBC’s focus on accessibility aligns with broader trends in media consumption. According to recent CRTC data, Canadians with disabilities represent a significant portion of media consumers, with more than 6.2 million people—about 22 percent of the population—identifying as having some form of disability.

The broadcaster has developed dedicated resources to address accessibility concerns, including an “About CBC Accessibility” information portal that details available services and ongoing initiatives. Additionally, CBC has established an “Accessibility Feedback” mechanism, encouraging users to report issues or suggest improvements to the corporation’s accessibility features.

These efforts reflect CBC’s response to the Accessible Canada Act, which came into force in 2019 and requires federally regulated organizations to identify, remove and prevent barriers to accessibility. Media accessibility experts have noted that CBC’s initiatives go beyond minimum compliance requirements.

“Public broadcasters play a crucial role in setting industry standards for accessibility,” explained Dr. Samantha Chen, a digital accessibility researcher at Ryerson University. “CBC’s commitment sends a signal to private broadcasters and streaming services that accessibility features are essential, not optional.”

The enhanced accessibility measures extend beyond CBC Gem to include the broadcaster’s website, mobile applications, and broadcast television services. Technical improvements include more accurate closed captioning, expanded described video content, keyboard navigation options, and screen reader compatibility.

CBC’s focus on digital accessibility comes at a time when Canadians increasingly consume media through online platforms. During the pandemic, CBC reported record digital engagement, highlighting the importance of ensuring these platforms remain accessible to all users.

Industry observers point out that CBC’s accessibility initiatives also make good business sense. A 2023 market analysis by Media Technology Partners estimated that improving digital accessibility could increase audience reach by up to 15 percent for major broadcasters.

The public broadcaster has indicated plans to further expand its accessibility features in the coming months, including the potential addition of American Sign Language (ASL) and Quebec Sign Language (LSQ) interpretation for select news programs and special events.

“Creating truly accessible media is an ongoing process,” noted accessibility advocate Michelle Brownrigg. “CBC’s willingness to solicit and respond to feedback from users with disabilities demonstrates a genuine commitment to continuous improvement.”

As streaming services continue to reshape how Canadians consume media, CBC’s focus on accessibility positions the public broadcaster as a leader in inclusive content delivery, potentially influencing accessibility standards across the Canadian media landscape.