June 13th 2024.
The upcoming Paris 2024 opening ceremony is already making waves, with the International Olympic Committee describing it as "bold, original, and unique." This ceremony will mark a historic moment, as it is the first time in the 128-year history of the Olympic Games that the opening ceremony will take place outside of a stadium. On July 26, over 10,500 athletes will parade down the Seine river on 94 boats, covering a six-kilometre stretch. The event is expected to draw a massive crowd, with 1.5 billion people tuning in to watch on television and online. And the best part? It's open to everyone in Paris for free.
However, with such a daring and ambitious ceremony comes the complex task of ensuring the safety of the athletes and the large crowds. This is especially challenging when the event is not contained within a stadium, making it easier for potential threats to infiltrate. As preparations are underway, one question remains on everyone's mind: How is France preparing for potential terrorism threats?
According to Victoria University Professor Ramón Spaaij, the security plans for Paris 2024 are similar to those of recent Games, but on a much larger scale. "It's the largest, most elaborate kind of security planning outside of war," Spaaij explains. "The Olympics require and justify really extraordinary security measures. It is both a highly symbolic event for the organizing country and city, but also a potential target for extremist organizations."
To ensure the safety of all those attending, France plans to deploy 45,000 police and security officers, 20,000 private security personnel, and around 15,000 military personnel each day of the Olympics. This includes "cutting-edge" surveillance software and the use of drones. Additionally, there will be a high-security "anti-terrorism perimeter" in place for the opening ceremony parade, with French President Emmanuel Macron stating that they have alternative plans in case of a threat.
Authorities are taking every precaution to mitigate potential risks, including conducting background security checks on people who work and live in buildings along the Seine. The attendance capacity for the ceremony has also been halved, with only 104,000 people allowed in the stands and a further 220,000 on raised roadways. French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin emphasized that safety is their top priority, and they are taking all necessary measures to ensure a secure event.
While some may question whether a strong police and military presence at large events makes people feel safer or more aware of potential risks, Spaaij believes that smaller venues such as shopping malls are more likely targets for attacks. He advises anyone planning to attend Paris 2024 to be vigilant and familiarize themselves with safety protocols, but not to live in fear. As he puts it, "Be alert, not alarmed."
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