Article et publication

Paris 2024 Paralympic Games: An extra BONUS The Paris 2024 Olympic Games are proving to be a resounding success in many respects. With the Paralympic Games in full swing, what lessons can we draw in terms of hospitality and services for people with disabilities? What ‘extra’ services are there for people who have that ‘extra something’? What will be the main legacies of these Games for this special and much-needed fraternity? Accessible infrastructure: more than an adaptation, a transformation   During the Olympic Games, Paris demonstrated its commitment by making 80% of its sports facilities accessible, compared with only 30% previously. This tangible progress enabled thousands of disabled spectators to enjoy the event in optimum conditions, in particular with access ramps, reserved parking spaces and adapted toilets. These achievements go beyond mere technical requirements; they embody a genuine transformation of the city, where inclusion is a visible reality. The success of these initiatives proves that universal accessibility can become a standard in all major cities and major events. Inclusive mobility: A revolution in transport   Efforts to improve mobility for people with disabilities during the Games were marked by concrete and effective initiatives. In particular, the RATP achieved its goal of making 100% of bus lines accessible, and 60% of metro stations were adapted. These improvements enabled people with reduced mobility to move around freely and take full part in the festivities. The fleet of adapted taxis has also been increased by 25%, providing a valuable alternative for those who need one. There has therefore been a move towards adapted services combining several modes of transport for people with disabilities, enabling complete journeys from one end to the other for them and their carers. Technology for inclusion: concrete innovations   The Paris 2024 Games were fertile ground for technological innovation in support of inclusion. The official mobile app, equipped with real-time guidance features, made it easier for disabled people to get around the Olympic venues. Bluetooth beacons installed in more than 70% of public places have enabled precise guidance, reducing barriers to mobility. This application not only made the Games experience more accessible, but also laid the foundations for the wider use of technology for inclusion in other urban contexts. Ezymob technology has also been deployed in certain venues and transport systems, enabling people with visual or mental disabilities to be guided ‘to their seats’. Services and assistance: A stronger ‘helping’ human welcome   One of the most remarkable elements of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games was the human commitment to people with disabilities. With 10,000 volunteers specially trained to assist them, people with reduced mobility were able to benefit from special attention. These volunteers, present at all the Olympic venues, provided invaluable support, illustrating true fraternity in action. Dedicated reception, rest areas and specific information points created an environment where everyone felt respected and supported. A lasting legacy: fraternity and cooperation to perpetuate   The legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in terms of accessibility and fraternity will not end with the end of the competitions. The improvements that have been made are intended to bring about a lasting transformation not only of the city, but above all of people’s minds, by setting new standards for inclusion. The advances made during these Games will benefit over 500,000 people with reduced mobility in the Île-de-France region in the long term. This legacy shows that major sporting events can be catalysts for profound social change, leaving a lasting imprint on the city and its residents. Above all, there is the issue of fraternity and cooperation with people with disabilities to maintain and develop. Sport appears to be an ideal vehicle for this, building on the momentum of the Games. In partnership with responsible stakeholders such as national sports federations, including the Union Nationale des Sports Scolaires, which brings together and organises all school sports at a time when differences and handicaps between pupils appear to be fundamental and very difficult to live with.   Impact Consultants in the carers’ camp! The Impact Consultants teams are motivated by the challenge of growth through inclusion and fraternity embodied by the Paralympic Games. It is perhaps the best motivation of all to seek positive experience and performance for those who vitally need it. To use a well-known terminology, we position ourselves as ‘helpers’ of these solutions and technologies, which need know-how and support to establish themselves and develop in a market that at first sight seems narrow. This is the work we have done for Ezymob and Hexowheel, dedicated technologies, and for Padam Mobility, an adapted technology. An article written by Paul de Rosen and Flavie Picart. Partagez cette page