2024 Paris Olympics: Security & Travel Risks

As the countdown to the 2024 Summer Olympics begins, Paris is bracing itself not just for an influx of athletes and tourists but also for heightened security risks. In this special audio brief, our experts, Sitati Wasilwa and Dr. Ramu C.M., delve into the multifaceted security landscape surrounding this global event, examining the potential threats and the extensive measures being put in place to ensure safety.

The 2024 Olympic Games, scheduled from July 26 to August 11, will see Paris transform into a global sports hub. The opening ceremony, set to take place at Jardins du Trocadéro along the Seine River, will kick off a series of events featuring around 10,500 athletes parading through the city’s iconic landmarks. However, amidst the excitement, the threat of terrorism looms large, with the Islamic State (IS), particularly its branch in Afghanistan (Islamic State Khorasan Province), identified as a significant risk. The resurgence of the IS threat in Europe in general, and France in particular, has been marked by increased radicalization efforts, especially among youngsters influenced by online propaganda. This has in turn resulted in a series of recent arrests of suspects in their late teens, either plotting to carry out attacks or indulging in targeted assaults on law enforcement personnel. Besides Islamist terrorism inspired by the likes of the IS, France is also facing a rising threat of rightwing extremism, posing equally potent risks to the security of the Games.

The city’s security apparatus is gearing up for an unprecedented challenge. A formidable force of up to 35,000 police and paramilitary officers, supplemented by 18,000 military personnel and 2,000 foreign officers, will be deployed. Cybersecurity experts will also be on hand to monitor potential threats, including cyber-attacks. Central Metro stations will be closed, and anti-drone technology will be deployed to safeguard the event.

The security risks surrounding the Paris Olympics are magnified by the IS’s capability and intent to target high-profile events to maximize casualties and media impact. Despite losing territorial control in the Middle East, IS has maintained its ability to inspire and orchestrate attacks through sleeper cells and online radicalization. The use of encrypted messaging and the dark web allows the group to coordinate low-tech, opportunistic attacks, such as vehicle ramming and stabbings, which are notoriously difficult to prevent.

The geopolitical implications of these threats are profound. ISIS is exploiting the chaos of the Russia-Ukraine conflict to enhance its recruitment and propaganda efforts. This has necessitated stronger counter-terrorism cooperation among European nations, potentially leading to more restrictive immigration policies and tighter border controls. Such measures could complicate international business operations and affect workforce mobility.

The security protocols for the Olympics will be stringent, with checkpoints and enhanced surveillance around key venues. Increased security measures, including entry checks and no-fly zones, may cause delays at airports, train stations, and other crowded areas. France’s history of extremist violence, including the 2015 Paris attacks, adds a layer of gravity to the situation. Additionally, planned protests and strikes by labor unions and political activists could cause further disruptions.

For more in-depth risk assessments and independent security advice on how these situations may impact your business operations, please reach out to APAC Assistance. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and be prepared to navigate the complex security environment of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

For bespoke and comprehensive risk analysis for travel and operations in France, please contact our Regional Director, Bhargav Reddy (Bhargav_Reddy@apacassistance.com).