News

As the world eagerly awaits the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in France, Frontex is proud to provide a record number of officers to support French law enforcement in ensuring the safety and security of this global event.

Between July and September, an average of 230 Frontex officers will bolster the efforts of French authorities in border management. These officers will primarily be deployed as Border Guard Officers to perform first-line checks on travellers crossing the external borders at key locations, including international airports, seaports, railway and road stations. Their duties will include managing massive passenger flows, detecting ineligible individuals, and facilitating the smooth crossing of bona fide travellers. Just at the Paris airports, over 125 Frontex officers will support border control measures.

In addition to Border Guard Officers, Advanced-Level Detection Officers will be present at critical points to enhance security measures, focusing on document and identity fraud. Frontex Tactical Support Officers will coordinate this significant reinforcement, ensuring efficient operational support at various border crossing points in France.

The preparation for this mission has been meticulous. Alongside the Frontex Coordinating Officers, French authorities have provided thorough briefings on local security aspects, rules of engagement, and operational procedures. Frontex officers have been integrated into local teams, working alongside the French Border Police, a branch of the National Police responsible for border control at the main border crossing points.

This operation marks Frontex's highest reinforcement for a specific large event and its largest activation level for airports and seaports. Despite the logistical challenges posed by deploying such a significant number of officers and their equipment, the reinforced command and coordination structure ensures seamless cooperation.

Frontex is honoured to stand side by side with France during this prestigious event, ensuring that the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games are safe and successful for all participants and visitors.