How to update WCAG 2.1 translations

Refer to the relevant process

To update a W3C technical report translation, you must follow the same process as for an initial translation:

Considering the limited scope of the WCAG 2.1 update, we will do our best to ensure that the W3C’s steps run as smoothly as possible.

Browse the content changes

The easiest way to spot the changes between the two versions is to use a “diff checker” tool, such as the W3C HTML Diff service.

Use the following input values :

Address of reference document
https://www.w3.org/TR/2018/REC-WCAG21-20180605/
Address of new document
https://www.w3.org/TR/2023/REC-WCAG21-20230921/

You can use this direct link: Diff between 2018 and 2023 WCAG 2.1 versions, via W3C HTML diff service

We also recommend that you read the WCAG 2.1 Change log.

Update the translation

In January 2024, we have published a guide on translating WCAG 2: How to translate WCAG 2. It explains how to use the content in w3c/wcag  repository to start translating WCAG.

If you want to use this method, refer to the WCAG21-20230921 tag to get the files of the 21 September 2023 version.

If starting over with this new method is overly complex for you, you can update your existing files.

(Authorized translations) Update the translation header

Each “Authorized Translation” must contain a translation header (also called “disclaimer”) at the top of the document. When updating a WCAG 2.1 translation, the following information will need update:

Date of publication
Translation publication date will be updated by W3C.
This version:
URI will be updated by W3C.
Most recent version:
Keep the existing URI. Example: https://www.w3.org/Translations/WCAG21-fr/
Previous version:
Dated URI of the initial translation. Example: https://www.w3.org/Translations/WCAG21-fr-20220711/
Please add and translate this new text.
Original version:
Use https://www.w3.org/TR/2023/REC-WCAG21-20230921/
Errata:
URI of an errata page. Please create and host a new errata page specific to this translation version.
Lead translating organization:
Update information when relevant.
Partners in the translation review:
Update URI as relevant.
Summary of public comments on the Candidate Authorized Translation:
Update URI as relevant.

Check your translation thoroughly

Please properly check your files before submission to W3C.

In particular, make sure that:

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