A Comparison of Public Policies on Audio Description in UK and Hong Kong

Audio description (AD) is an essential service that enhances the accessibility of visual media for people who are visually impaired. The implementation of and support for AD are heavily influenced by public policies, which can vary significantly across different regions. The UK is one of the earliest countries to implement policies, laws and regulations to ensure people who are visually impaired equal access to media. Regulatory bodies like Ofcom enforce AD quotas for broadcasters, ensuring a high standard of accessibility across media platforms. In contrast, Hong Kong’s approach to AD is less formalized, with initiatives largely driven by non-governmental organizations and minimal government intervention. By establishing a corpus to examine public documents, legislation, and official guidelines, the present study identifies similarities and differences between UK and Hong Kong in AD policies and their implementation. This research will contribute to the academic discourse on accessibility and public policy, offering valuable insights for policymakers, advocates, and service providers dedicated to improving accessibility for visually impaired individuals.