Paris is gearing up for the 2024 Summer Olympics, but the city’s approach to handling its homeless population is stirring controversy. Authorities have been evicting homeless individuals to improve the city’s image before the global event. Critics argue that this action is tantamount to social cleansing, merely masking poverty-related issues instead of solving them. The French government has relocated thousands of homeless immigrants from the streets of Paris to align with President Emmanuel Macron’s vision of showcasing a positive image of Paris worldwide. However, leaked emails suggest a deliberate effort to remove visible poverty from areas surrounding Olympic venues.
Aside from the homeless, students are also feeling the impact of these evictions. The French Supreme Court’s approval of reallocating student residences for Olympic staff use has disrupted the lives and academic pursuits of many students. Offers of minimal compensation have failed to ease tensions, shedding light on the social disruptions that often accompany major international events.
This unfolding situation in Paris highlights the conflicting priorities of hosting major events and addressing the needs of vulnerable residents. It prompts a reevaluation of how such events affect marginalized communities, urging a more considerate approach to hosting mega-events like the Olympics.