Did you know that the ancient Olympic truce did not actually stop wars? Wars continued, but there was a safe passage for athletes from all backgrounds to participate in the Games. This concept of truce in the Hellenic sense is being applied in Paris, especially for Israeli athletes who have faced calls for exclusion, yet are participating in the Games as scheduled.
Fabrice D’Almeida, a professor of contemporary history at the Institut français de presse and a popular TV presenter, similar to the French version of Piero Angela, explains to ANSA the significance for the French of an Olympics considered one of the most controversial, both philosophically and organizationally.
His perspective delves into the political nuances of an event that transcends mere competition and intertwines with geopolitics. “In reality,” D’Almeida asserts, “when it comes to the Olympic truce (which, I insist, is present here: a Russian athlete, perhaps without a flag, competes against a Ukrainian…), Macron interprets it in a somewhat personal manner. He wants to avoid internal political conflicts in France during this time, which is highly contested by the opposition, particularly the left, who have repeatedly called for a new prime minister following the elections. However, it seems that the left lacks the strength to impose this on Macron at present.”
But beyond the political aspects, what do the Olympics mean for the French people? “There has been a significant economic and ideological investment, with big promises to make these Games truly inclusive, with equal representation of men and women. This has been achieved. These are also sustainable Games, a crucial concept for Paris. Interestingly, it took a long time for people to fully embrace the idea of the Olympic Games. Just last week, France was focused on politics, but starting from Monday, everything changed, and the Games became the center of our lives. However, the high level of security measures, with restricted areas marked by different colors, has somewhat subdued the festive atmosphere in the city.”
Regarding the city, it seems that Paris has emptied of its residents, with reports of nails being thrown on the Olympic lanes. Is there a sense of rejection towards these Games? “There is some resistance due to the high tension and significant threat of terror attacks, along with repeated warnings. Some people have been frightened, and mobility has become a challenge. Consequently, we Parisians have experienced the problems before the pleasures.”
And what about the opening ceremony? “A substantial amount of work has been put into it, and it will be a spectacular event. It will be held outside the stadium, in contact with the Parisians, along the Seine: these are, so to speak, aquatic Games…” What message do the organizers aim to convey? “Certainly, a message of humanity, humanism, and diversity. It’s crucial to remember that populism is strong in Europe, especially in France, so I believe that in line with our traditional values, there will be a message of openness to the world, rather than a signal of nationalism or selfishness. ‘We are all together, we have to share’, this will be the general message, alongside the promotion of French culture because every country naturally promotes itself. The 1960 Rome Olympics featured a portion in the Forum, the heart of Rome. Similarly, Paris will showcase iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais, and the Place de la Concorde.”
How will Macron diplomatically leverage the Games? “I am not sure,” D’Almeida concludes, “that he will have the strength to use it as a diplomatic weapon because he is currently in a politically weakened position. His colleagues, other prime ministers, are well aware that Macron is in a difficult situation. It’s not like five years ago when he had a majority in the National Assembly and full control. Today, things are not as smooth, the Assembly is not easy, the Prime Minister is on the verge of departure, Macron cannot take strong initiatives. Even if he does, it will be like recently when he went to Israel and suggested forming a new coalition, but no one really listened to him.”
To borrow an Italian analogy, he stands almost alone and is not truly in command. Global diplomacy does not forgive such circumstances.”
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