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( Understandable / WCAG 3.2.1 )

Context change happens when element receives focus

This check maps to On Focus. Use the guidance below to confirm the issue, understand who it affects and ship a fix.

Serious Level A WCAG 3.2.1 — On Focus

What’s wrong

Moving focus to a control triggers navigation or another context change immediately.

Why it matters

Keyboard-only users move focus to explore controls before deciding. Automatic context changes can disorient users and interrupt task flow.

How to fix it

Use semantic HTML and valid ARIA so assistive technology gets the same state and structure as sighted users. Keep labels and states explicit in markup.

Before
<select onfocus="location.href=this.value">
  <option value="/reports">Reports</option>
</select>
After
<select onchange="location.href=this.value">
  <option value="">Choose a page</option>
  <option value="/reports">Reports</option>
</select>

If this pattern is generated by a component, fix it once in the shared component so every instance inherits the accessible behavior.

Learn more