Accessible ATMs for People with Disabilities
Kyrgyzstan’s National Bank Pushes for Accessible Banking Services for People with Disabilities
In an effort to promote inclusivity and accessibility, commercial banks in Kyrgyzstan will soon be required to incorporate special features in their mobile applications, ATMs, and payment terminals to cater to people with disabilities. This initiative, spearheaded by the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic, aims to make banking services more user-friendly for all individuals.
As part of the state program “Accessible Country for People with Disabilities and Other Mobility-Impaired Groups in the Kyrgyz Republic for 2023-2030,” a draft regulation has been developed to outline the specific requirements. The National Bank underscores the importance of achieving social justice by ensuring equal access to payment infrastructure and banking services for everyone.
The proposed special functionalities include adjustable font sizes, sections, icons, playback speed, and volume for audio guidance, color contrast settings, text-to-speech functionality for mobile applications, and tactile markers on control panels. These features will enable people with disabilities to carry out all banking transactions seamlessly.
Furthermore, banks will be expected to update older ATMs and payment terminals installed before June 1, 2025, within five years of the adoption of the regulatory legal act. This update will align these devices with the necessary accessibility requirements, allowing individuals with disabilities to fully utilize the services provided.
By implementing these changes, Kyrgyzstan’s financial institutions are taking a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible banking environment for all members of society.
