1. Purpose
This policy outlines PakPedia’s commitment to providing an accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly platform that ensures all users—regardless of ability, background, education level, or device—can access Pakistan’s civic, legal, and geographic information without barriers.
2. Accessibility Commitment
PakPedia strives to meet or exceed global accessibility standards, including:
- WCAG 2.1 AA (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)
- Best practices for readable public information
- Inclusive civic-education principles
Accessibility improvements are ongoing and continuously evaluated.
3. Inclusive Design Principles
3.1 Equal Access
All users must be able to view, understand, and navigate content, including those with:
- Visual impairments
- Hearing impairments
- Cognitive or learning differences
- Motor limitations
- Low literacy levels
- Limited internet or device capability
3.2 User-Centered Design
Content is formatted to support:
- Easy reading
- Simplified explanations for civic topics
- Logical structure
- Multilingual use where available
3.3 Device Flexibility
PakPedia maintains a responsive design for:
- Mobile devices
- Tablets
- Desktop screens
- Low-bandwidth environments
4. Accessibility Standards in Content
4.1 Readability
Content must use:
- Plain-language explanations
- Clear headings
- Consistent formatting
- Supportive examples when needed
4.2 Non-Visual Access
Key features include:
- Alt-text for images
- Accessible navigation labels
- Screen reader–friendly structure
- Semantic HTML for clarity
4.3 Color & Contrast
Visual elements use:
- High-contrast color combinations
- Avoidance of color-dependent meaning
- Legible font sizes
4.4 Keyboard Navigation
Core areas of the site are usable without a mouse.
5. Inclusion Principles
5.1 Cultural Inclusion
Content must represent Pakistan’s regions, cultures, and communities respectfully and without stereotypes.
5.2 Language Accessibility
Where possible, PakPedia supports:
- Dual-language explanations
- Readability for diverse literacy levels
- Simplified versions for students and new learners
5.3 Technology Inclusion
Pages are optimized for:
- Low-speed connectivity
- Older browsers
- Low-memory devices
5.4 Economic Inclusion
All public civic information on PakPedia remains free and accessible.
6. Content Contribution Guidelines
Contributors must follow accessibility standards by:
- Adding alt-text to images
- Using descriptive link text
- Avoiding complex or decorative formatting
- Providing clear and structured content
- Ensuring readability for diverse learning levels
Moderators review accessibility before approving major changes.
7. Accessibility Tools & Enhancements
PakPedia may include:
- Text resizing options
- High-contrast view modes
- Simplified reading modes
- Translation assistance
- Screen reader compatibility updates
Enhancements are guided by user needs and technical feasibility.
8. Reporting Accessibility Issues
Users may report issues through:
- Email: [email protected]
- Page-level feedback tools
Reports should include:
- Page URL
- Description of the issue
- Device or tool used (optional)
Accessibility concerns receive prioritized review.
9. Compliance & Review Process
9.1 Regular Audits
PakPedia conducts periodic:
- Accessibility tests
- Screen reader audits
- Mobile responsiveness checks
9.2 Continuous Improvement
Identified gaps lead to:
- Updates in layout
- Better content structure
- Improved readability standards
9.3 Contributor Training
Contributors may receive guidance on accessibility best practices.
10. Enforcement
PakPedia may:
- Update or correct inaccessible content
- Require contributors to revise submissions
- Restrict editing access for repeated violations
Accessibility is treated as a core editorial and civic responsibility.