Why is accessibility often perceived as a constraint rather than an asset?

Accessibility is often viewed as a regulatory constraint due to its historical ties to disability, which is frequently seen through a medical lens. This perception limits the understanding of the benefits that an inclusive approach can bring, both economically and socially, by enhancing the experience for all users.

What are the main obstacles to accessibility in buildings and public spaces in France?

Obstacles to accessibility include a lack of training for architects on accessibility standards, an approach often limited to visible disabilities, and delays in implementing legal obligations. Additionally, the heterogeneity of efforts between public and private actors complicates the situation.

How can artificial intelligence contribute to improving accessibility?

Artificial intelligence can play a key role in developing solutions that facilitate the autonomy of people with disabilities, such as voice-guided applications in buildings. These technologies allow for a more natural and intuitive interaction, making services more accessible to everyone.

How does the aging population influence accessibility issues?

The aging population leads to an increase in the number of people likely to encounter mobility difficulties, making accessibility even more crucial. As the population ages, it becomes essential to rethink infrastructures to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse society.

What solutions does Okeenea propose to improve the accessibility of public spaces?

Okeenea develops innovative solutions, such as smartphone navigation systems, that help users navigate complex environments like train stations or hospitals. These tools aim to make public spaces more inclusive and accessible to everyone.

Inclusion

Sylvain Denoncin

President — Okeenea

How Accessibility Can Transform Our Cities and Businesses?

33:51·23 September 2026

This article was automatically translated from its original Français version. Read the original

Sylvain Denoncin is the president of Okeenea, a company specializing for over 30 years in making buildings, public spaces, and transportation accessible for people with disabilities.

In France, nearly 12 million people live with a disability. In 80% of cases, this disability is invisible. Accessibility is still often perceived as a regulatory constraint. “It is the environment that creates the disabling situation,” reminds Sylvain Denoncin.

Twenty years after the 2005 disability law aimed at making public establishments accessible, the work is still far from complete. According to Sylvain Denoncin, only half of the built heritage is currently compliant.

However, accessibility does not only benefit people with disabilities. With the aging population, temporary impairments, strollers, or luggage, anyone can face mobility challenges at some point. “One in two French people will be affected by a disability during their lifetime,” emphasizes Sylvain Denoncin.

For businesses, integrating these issues also becomes a performance lever. Studies show that greater diversity enhances profitability, while a building designed according to inclusive design principles improves the experience for both customers and employees.

Innovation also opens up new perspectives. Okeenea is developing smartphone navigation solutions that can guide users within train stations, hospitals, or campuses. Tomorrow, artificial intelligence and natural language interfaces are expected to further enhance the autonomy of individuals. “Artificial intelligence will be a major accelerator of inclusion,” believes the president of Okeenea.

For Sylvain Denoncin, accessibility should no longer be seen as a niche market or a mere regulatory obligation. It represents an investment in safety, autonomy, and usability, with benefits that concern society as a whole.

Frequently asked questions

Accessibility is often viewed as a regulatory constraint due to its historical ties to disability, which is frequently seen through a medical lens. This perception limits the understanding of the benefits that an inclusive approach can bring, both economically and socially, by enhancing the experience for all users.