The United Nations’ human rights experts have voiced strong concerns over security measures planned for the 2024 Paris Olympics, deeming many as unnecessary or discriminatory. They contend that while France has implemented reasonable security precautions against terrorism, certain strategies might be excessive or violate rights associated with expression and assembly.
In their report, the experts advocate for France to instigate an independent review of these measures, highlighting the necessity of ensuring compliance with human rights law amidst heightened terrorist threats. They assert that security protocols have been applied too broadly, often impacting individuals based on their political or ethnic identities.
The report underscored the alarming use of technologies like drones and advanced surveillance tools, which have contributed to invasive security practices. These measures, designed ostensibly to thwart public dissent, have often intervened unduly in citizens’ freedoms, leading to a higher number of legal challenges against them.
Naming the three independent UN experts behind the report—Ben Saul, Gina Romero, and Alexandra Xanthaki—the document calls for accountability and improvements not only in France but also for other countries hosting significant events. The experts appealed for international sporting bodies, such as FIFA and the International Olympic Committee, to address human rights considerations in their gatherings as future major sport events loom worldwide.
UN experts have criticised the security measures for the 2024 Paris Olympics as potentially unlawful and excessive. They recommend an independent review by France, indicating that some measures target individuals based on their political or ethnic backgrounds. The report warns of infringements on freedoms and calls for the collaboration of international sporting bodies to assess human rights risks in future events.
In summary, the UN human rights specialists are unambiguous in their call for reevaluation of the security plans for the Paris Olympics. They stress that excessive security measures infringe on basic rights and could brew discontent among the populace. Their emphasis on a review process underlines a critical approach to ensuring that future events do not compromise human rights in the name of security.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
