French cities accused of conducting “social cleansing” ahead of Olympic Games

After a year of observation, 102 associations belonging to the collective “Le revers de la médaille” (“The other side of the coin”) have published a report describing the “social cleansing” happening in cities across France. The report reveals that over 12,500 people in precarious situations have been evicted from street camps, occupied houses, without a permanent accommodation solution, and a quarter have been sent outside the Paris region. Those engaging in prostitution and substance abuse are also being expelled from their homes. According to the report published on Monday, June 3, there has been a 40% increase in evictions, 3,000 fewer accommodation places in the Paris region, and increased police pressure since 2023.

The associations of the “Le revers de la médaille” collective are concerned about the acceleration in the rate of evictions of vulnerable groups. A volunteer with Aides, an organization that works with crack users in Paris, notes that the police presence in areas where vulnerable groups live and consume drugs has significantly increased. Directives related to drugs have been issued since 2023, leading to stricter measures like removing seating areas in public places, making it more challenging for homeless individuals to find safe spaces.

Lawyers and volunteers working with vulnerable populations report that the increased police presence and stricter measures are linked to the preparation for the upcoming Olympic Games. Town councils are taking advantage of the opportunity presented by Paris 2024 to carry out evictions under pretexts like ensuring prompt arrival of trains during the games. This situation is forcing vulnerable groups to move to more remote areas, increasing their risk of harm and violence.

The collective is working to raise awareness of the impact of the Olympic Games on vulnerable populations and to advocate for more humane solutions to address homelessness and substance abuse issues in France’s cities. They are calling for more support and resources to assist vulnerable groups and prevent further social cleansing as a result of the upcoming Olympic Games.