The Paris Olympic Games in 2024 may be only three years away, but the security challenge today is remarkably higher than ever before. This is especially true following last weekend’s tragic knife attack which claimed the life of a tourist at the very heart of the city – near the Eiffel Tower. The tragedy was the latest reminder that even the most secure places in the world are vulnerable to terrorism.
Yet the attack, by a suspected Islamic radical, has not deterred French authorities from strengthening security measures and taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of visitors to the Games. In fact, the Paris Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games (POCOG) is now working with the French government to strengthen fortress-like security arrangements, making sure that the 2024 Games will be the safest ever with no room for terrorist attacks.
The security plans for the 2024 Games are far more advanced than at any previous Olympics. Paris authorities, in partnership with the POCOG, have already set up an integrated security system, which includes a detailed Risk and Security Plan (RSP) providing a comprehensive approach to the prevention, detection and response of security threats. This includes a 24-hour monitoring and surveillance system personnel as well as a network of advanced scanning equipment.
In addition to strengthening its existing security infrastructure, the government is also planning to introduce a new intelligence and security network which will be connected to similar networks around the world. This will ensure that all incoming and outgoing visitors are tracked and monitored in real time, allowing for faster response times and more effective threat detection.
Moreover, the authorities have already set up a specialized task force which is focused on counter-terrorism operations. This task force is made up of experienced security personnel and is equipped with highly advanced intelligence-gathering technology and weapons. Additionally, the authorities are planning to deploy drones equipped with high-powered cameras and sensors along with helicopters to provide aerial surveillance of the area and to detect any suspicious activities.
Additionally, the federal and regional governments have already started negotiations with the French armed forces to provide additional protection and a backup military force in case of any emergency.
The government is also in the process of forming a joint law enforcement team which will be made up of police officers from both the local and the federal authorities. This team will be responsible for the security of the Olympic village as well as for the security of the city at large. The security measures will also include setting up of random checkpoints, as well as increased airport screening.
Finally, in order to ensure the safety of the athletes and the spectators, the authorities are also working on setting up a fast and effective communications network which will enable the authorities to keep in touch with all the relevant stakeholders at all times.
The Paris Olympic Games in 2024 is expected to be the most secure ever. The tragedy of the attack last weekend has only further strengthened the resolve of the authorities to ensure that the security in Paris is airtight and that no terrorist attack can succeed. The French government is committed to ensuring that the security systems in place for the Games are sophisticated, robust, and effective enough to ensure the safety of the athletes, spectators, and the venue.
