Issues and Incidents of the 2024 Paris Olympics

 

Issues and Incidents of the 2024 Paris Olympics

As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, several issues and incidents have emerged, threatening the successful execution of the event. Here are the main points:

1. Pre-Opening Incidents

1.1. Restrictions on Cultural Events

• The principle of not holding large-scale cultural events during the Paris Olympics has led to backlash from the Parisian art community.

1.2. Controversy Over Opening Ceremony Location

• The opening ceremony is set to take place on the Seine River, rather than the main stadium, a first for the Summer Olympics. This decision has led to controversy over the temporary removal of the 450-year-old 'Bouquinistes,' a symbol of France.

1.3. Seine River Water Quality Issues

• There are ongoing concerns about the water quality of the Seine River, where the opening ceremony and triathlon swimming events will be held. Despite a 2 trillion won investment in river purification by the French government, the issue remains contentious.

1.4. Homelessness Policy

• The process of relocating homeless people during the preparation for the Olympics has generated significant public backlash. Protests have included plans for symbolic actions against the policies.

2. Security Issues and Protests

2.1. Terror Threats and Enhanced Security

• With historical and ongoing terrorist threats, the Paris police have increased personnel and heightened security measures. Additional fences and other measures are in place to prevent potential attacks and crimes.

2.2. Political Unrest and Protests

• Protests against President Macron's pension reforms and riots following the police shooting of an Algerian teenager have created an unstable political climate. Farmers' protests have also intensified, targeting import policies and blocking major routes.

2.3. Request for Police Support from Other Countries

• The French government has controversially requested police support from participating countries, marking the first time in Olympic history that the host country has made such a request.

3. Environmental and Sustainability Issues

3.1. Greenwashing Controversy

• Despite claims of a sustainable Olympics, the decision not to install air conditioning in the athletes' village has led to significant criticism. Some countries have decided to install their own air conditioning units.

3.2. Shuttle Bus Issues

• Shuttle buses lack air conditioning and have sealed windows due to security concerns, creating extremely uncomfortable conditions for athletes.

3.3. Vegetarian Diet

• A predominantly vegetarian diet has been provided to reduce carbon footprint, leading to dissatisfaction among athletes due to a lack of meat options.

3.4. Olympic Flame Controversy

• The Olympic flame has been replaced by a special effect using LED lights and high-pressure nozzles, which has drawn criticism.

4. Opening Ceremony Incidents

4.1. Mistake with South Korean Delegation

• During the opening ceremony, the South Korean delegation was mistakenly announced with the name of North Korea. The Korean Olympic Committee has lodged a formal complaint.

4.2. Incorrect Raising of the Olympic Flag

• The Olympic flag was mistakenly raised upside down, an unprecedented error that has caused international embarrassment.

4.3. Parody of The Last Supper

• A scene in the opening ceremony that parodied Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' has sparked outrage among Christians, leading to criticism from various religious groups.

5. Competition Incidents

5.1. Men’s Soccer Group B: Argentina vs. Morocco

• Moroccan fans caused a riot after Argentina scored a tying goal, leading to a lengthy game suspension. During the match, Argentina's locker room was robbed.

5.2. Women’s Soccer Group A: Canada vs. New Zealand

• The Canadian women’s soccer team was caught spying on the New Zealand team with a drone, leading to the suspension of their coach and analyst.

5.3. Judo Men’s -60kg Quarterfinals

• A controversial decision led to the defeat of Japan's Nagayama Ryuju against Spain's Francisco Garrigos.

5.4. Archery: South Korea vs. France

• Scoring errors during the archery event and a mishap during the medal ceremony, where France’s flag was raised lower than Turkey’s, caused controversy.

5.5. Judo Women’s -57kg Final

• South Korea’s Hur Mi-mi lost to Canada’s Christa Deguchi due to a controversial decision, sparking debate about judo rules and refereeing.

To ensure the successful hosting of the Paris Olympics, these issues must be addressed. Cooperation among all stakeholders is essential to resolve these problems and create a safe and enjoyable Olympic experience.