Several associations have accused the authorities of conducting a “social cleansing” of the Parisian region in preparation for the 2024 Olympics. However, the state has denied aiming for “zero homeless” as its objective.

These associations, including organizations like the Salvation Army and Emmaus Solidarity, are protesting against what they perceive as a deliberate effort to remove marginalized groups such as migrants, homeless individuals, and sex workers from the region ahead of the Olympics. They argue that the upcoming event is merely a facade that hides the ongoing social issues in the area.

As part of their protests, activists rallied outside the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and covered the steps of Montmartre with painted banners in Olympic colors, which hid words like “solidarity,” “homelessness,” “squats,” and “shantytowns.” They highlighted the plight of thousands of people, including families, pregnant women, and hundreds of children, who spend their nights on the streets of Paris and Seine-Saint-Denis.

The Prefecture of the Ile-de-France region has acknowledged the need to provide quality accommodation for homeless individuals and has emphasized a commitment to improving social support for these vulnerable populations, especially during the Olympic period.

However, associations claim that the current housing capacity is insufficient and are calling for an additional 10,000 places to accommodate those who will be displaced by the ongoing evictions of squats and shantytowns in the coming weeks.

Furthermore, they are demanding specific measures to mitigate the negative impact of the Olympics on these communities, such as the establishment of a reception center for migrants and facilities for drug users, as well as a system to provide food aid during the Olympic period.

In addition to the displacement of migrants and homeless individuals, there has been a surge in the dismantling of camps, with 35 operations conducted by the Prefecture of the Ile-de-France region since January, resulting in the transfer of 3,329 people to other parts of the country. To address the increasing number of displaced individuals, the government has established temporary reception centers, known as “sas,” in various regions to accommodate those living on the streets of Paris.

The situation remains tense as various organizations continue to pressure the authorities to address the growing humanitarian crisis in the lead-up to the 2024 Olympics. The focus now is on finding practical solutions and ensuring that the most vulnerable individuals are not further marginalized as a result of the preparations for this global event.