French encounter frosty reaction for upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics
[Olympic rings in Paris. Photo Credit to Rawpixel]
The Paris 2024 Olympics, set to begin this summer, is facing great controversy and criticism.
Parisians, who might be delighted and excited about the Olympics, are voicing strong opposition for various reasons.
On social media, particularly TikTok, users are expressing their discontent by posting videos and urging people to avoid Paris during the Olympics.
The primary concern is overcrowding, as an influx of international visitors is expected to strain the city’s transportation systems, including buses and subways.
Additionally, accommodations are anticipated to be jammed with tourists.
Criticism has also been directed at the government for displacing students from their accommodations in exchange for two Olympics tickets, despite uncertainties about alternative housing.
Adding to the concerns, it has been revealed that 17,000 security agents are missing, which raises fears about the ability to control the crowds.
The government is hastily hiring retired agents and students to fulfill the shortage, even though they are receiving less training than usual.
The threat of terrorism further compounds these worries.
Reports suggest that Russia may target the Paris Olympics for terrorism, with fake videos spreading fear among the public.
TikTok users are worried if they can receive full protection from inadequately trained agents amidst potential overcrowding and terrorist threats.
A broader discontent is reflected in a poll where 44 percent of French citizens agreed that Paris Olympics are a ‘bad thing’, and 52 percent indicated plans to leave the city during the event.
Other controversies are also emerging.
The bouquiniste industry was banned by the government and driven out of Paris.
After the eradication of vendors, the shops that had a long tradition and had been operating since the 16th century were also closed.
There is criticism about banning these industries solely for aesthetic reasons in the cities, ignoring their long-standing cultural significance.
Moreover, the government has been relocating the homeless from Paris, estimated at around 200,000 in Paris.
They have often broken promises of alternative residences, leaving many without assistance.
Bedbugs are also one of the greatest issues, with fears that they may spread through the bedding in Paris accommodations.
As Paris prepares to host its first Olympics in 100 years, these issues raise questions about the city’s ability to successfully manage the event.
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- Jia Yoo / Grade 8
- Newton Academy