Paris, August 20, 2024 — Outgoing French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced on Tuesday that a substantial security force of 25,000 police and gendarmes will be deployed to ensure the safety of the Paris Paralympic Games, which will take place from August 28 to September 8. The announcement underscores France’s commitment to a secure and well-organized event amid heightened vigilance.
Speaking at a press conference, Darmanin detailed the comprehensive security arrangements, stating that the primary focus will be on Île-de-France and Châteauroux, with peak forces reaching 25,000 officers.
The deployment will be bolstered by support from elite intervention units, including the Search and Intervention Brigade (BRI), the RAID tactical unit, and the National Gendarmerie Intervention Group (GIGN), comprising 300 officers. Additionally, 10,000 private security agents will assist in maintaining order throughout the Games.
Despite the extensive security measures, Darmanin assured that there is currently no “specific threat” against the Paralympic Games.
He emphasized that the protection of sensitive delegations, including those from Israel, will be handled with the same level of security as the Olympic Games. This includes ensuring the safety of 27 athletes, two referees, and the Paralympic committee chairman, all of whom will be under constant protection.
The security plans received praise from Tony Estanguet, President of the Paris Games organizing committee, who commended the decision to maintain high security levels from the relaying of the Paralympic flame. “The mobilization of resources is essential to ensuring a safe and successful Games,” Estanguet stated.
The opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games will be held on August 28 at Place de la Concorde, featuring an artistic direction by Thomas Jolly and choreography by Sweden’s Alexander Ekman. The ceremony will involve approximately 150 dancers, including around 20 with disabilities, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the event.
The Paralympic Games are set against a busy backdrop in France, with the start of the school year and the anticipated formation of a new government adding to the country’s current dynamic atmosphere.
In preparation for the influx of visitors, transport accessibility remains a significant concern. While Paris’s older metro system presents challenges for persons with disabilities, outgoing Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castera assured that over 65 metro stations have been made accessible to improve mobility.
As the Paris Paralympic Games approach, the focus remains on ensuring a safe and accessible experience for all participants and spectators, highlighting France’s commitment to inclusivity and security during this major international event.
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