'The Paris 2024 Olympics are proof: Trust, dialogue and inclusion are the keys to an effective security policy' (2024)

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games were a resounding demonstration of France's ability to guarantee security at an event of global significance. This feat is not just technical but above all political, illustrating that public safety is essentially a matter of collective will. An often underestimated aspect of this success lies in the management of security in working-class neighborhoods, where, far from clichés, the demand for protection is particularly strong.

Faced with multiple challenges – social tensions, massive flows of visitors – France deployed an effective security strategy. Political choices were decisive: the use of cutting-edge technologies, increased staffing levels but above all a balanced approach that preserved civil liberties while ensuring optimum protection.

The real strength of this strategy lies in its inclusiveness, particularly in working-class neighborhoods. These areas, often stigmatized as high-risk zones, were integrated into the security system with particular attention. The authorities understood that security could not be enforced from outside but had to be co-established with the residents, thus responding to their legitimate demand for security without sacrificing their rights.

Respectful and inclusive approach

Working-class neighborhoods, often perceived as areas of tension, are the first to demand greater security. For many residents, security is synonymous with stability, protection from everyday violence and the opportunity to live peacefully. During the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, this demand was taken into account in an unprecedented way for Parisian neighborhoods and those in the inner suburbs. It is essential to maintain and develop this approach for other regions.

Rather than reinforcing a police presence perceived as oppressive, the authorities opted for a more respectful and inclusive approach. Efforts were made to establish a dialogue with local organizations, identify their specific needs and respond to them in an appropriate manner. It helped to build trust between residents and law enforcement agencies, demonstrating that security is a right shared by all, regardless of where they live.

This success is due not only to the mobilization of resources but also to the quality of the relationship between the police and the population, particularly in working-class neighborhoods. The police, often perceived as a repressive force, have been repositioned as a partner to the public.

This approach helped to defuse tensions and create a calmer environment. The law enforcement agencies adopted a local approach, favoring mediation rather than confrontation. Residents were able to see that their safety was a priority for the government, not only in terms of police presence but also in terms of respect and consideration for their daily lives.

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