In the lead-up to the 2024 Paris Olympics, French authorities have faced significant criticism for their approach to managing homelessness and migrant populations in the city. On Thursday, armed police oversaw the removal of hundreds of people, primarily African migrants, from the streets of Paris. These individuals, many carrying backpacks and small children, were transported to the outskirts of the city in government-funded buses to be housed in temporary accommodations until the end of the Games.
This forced relocation has been labeled by some as "social cleansing," a practice previously observed in other Olympic host cities like Rio de Janeiro in 2016. Critics argue that this strategy aims to present a polished image of Paris for the global audience, rather than addressing the underlying issues of homelessness and migration. Activist groups and displaced individuals have voiced their concerns, claiming that the government's actions are more about aesthetics than providing genuine support.
Nikki, a 47-year-old homeless Parisian, expressed uncertainty about the future, noting that while temporary shelter is provided, the long-term prospects remain unclear. Similarly, Natacha Louise Gbetie, a 36-year-old migrant from Burkina Faso, highlighted the difficulties faced by migrants in securing stable housing and employment, especially in a political climate increasingly hostile to immigrants.
Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete condemned the acts of "criminal incidents" but insisted that the government's relocation efforts are intended to care for those displaced. Christophe Noël Du Payrat, chief of staff of the regional government of Île-de-France, defended the relocations, stating that the government has been relocating migrants for years and is committed to offering them places to stay.
Despite these assurances, the displacement has sparked protests and accusations of aggressive tactics. Activist Nathan Lequeux from Utopia 56 criticized the increasing hostility towards migrants, suggesting that the lead-up to the Olympics has intensified these measures.Â
In response to the displacements, various groups organized a 'Counter Opening Ceremony' at Place de la République, protesting the use of public funds for the Olympics while neglecting the city's housing crisis. Banners and speeches highlighted the perceived injustice, with slogans condemning the prioritization of Olympic preparations over social welfare.
Noah Fargeon, a spokesperson for Saccage 2024, described the Paris Olympics as a "monstrous waste of public funds" and criticized the superficial transformation of the city for tourists, which he argued comes at the expense of its residents. The protests called for greater investment in housing and social services, rather than measures aimed at simply removing visible signs of poverty.
