France: Paris 2024 Olympic Games to prompt heightened security and disruptions nationwide, July 26-Aug 11

France will host the Paris 2024 Olympic Games from July 26-Aug. 11, prompting heightened security and localized disruptions in Paris and major centers nationwide. Authorities are running an extensive and visible security operation to safeguard the events from various avenues, including terrorism, cyber threats, street crime, protest activity, and industrial action.

Heightened security is likely at airports and other border controls throughout the period. Authorities have imposed road closures and traffic control measures to create security zones around sporting venues. Additional police and anti-terrorist military patrols are likely at transport hubs, tourist hotspots, and sporting events.

Officials in France have declared an elevated terrorist threat in recent months; the national threat warning is at its highest level since March. National security authorities have also noted significant levels of cyberattacks, which are exacerbated by international tensions. Activists have maintained a high degree of protest activity in recent weeks. Environmental and pro-Palestine protests and other political rallies will likely continue throughout the Games period. Labor unions may also continue to use the Olympic Games' high profile to call for workers' strikes.

The sporting events will take place in multiple locations in Paris, in the wider Ile-de-France region around Paris, and in the following major cities: Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Nice, Saint Etienne, and Versailles. A complete list of venues is available here.

Additional security measures will likely prompt delays and disruptions for spectators and travelers in the cities hosting Olympic events. Increased scrutiny could prompt processing delays at airports and border crossings. Demonstrations and industrial action may cause additional impact throughout the period. Public transport schedules are likely to be revised to manage spectator numbers.