Monday, July 29, 2024

Controversies Surrounding The 2024 Paris Olympics

 


The Paris 2024 Olympics have begun with controversy. France cleared the streets of migrants and homeless. It was July 25, when migrants and homeless were forced onto buses. Police took them to temporary lodging areas. The concern is that the migrants and homeless are going to be trapped in these areas. The migrants that were forcibly removed were mostly of African descent. Migrants are from Senegal, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Guinea. These were former colonies of the French Empire.  The racist overtones cannot be ignored. If these were European migrants or refugees they would be treated better. Some also are questioning why France is hosting the Olympics. The economic challenges and demonstrations make the country tense. Hosting the Olympics might not generate economic prosperity. A boost in tourism can help, but it is temporary. Construction of sports venues and stadiums contributes to pollution. The Olympics are following a consistent pattern. The term for this is known as social cleansing. Removing those who are oppressed and struggling is a way to make a country look better. France cannot hide its poor and its anti-immigrant sentiment. The athletes are competing in high temperatures. All have to sign waivers prior to competing. The IOC should be responsible for the safety of the athletes. All these controversies are mounting and it will continue with future Olympic games. Some are debating the relevance of the Olympic games and why they should continue. The Olympics still generate profits and a  large fan following. The IOC must change policies and nations must ensure that hosting the games does not result in displacement of the vulnerable.    

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