Residents brand Winter Olympics in French Alps an ‘environmental aberration’
The future Winter Games already marred with controversy
- A citizens' group, Collectif Citoyen JOP 2030, has initiated legal action demanding a public debate on the 2030 Winter Olympics and Paralympics in the French Alps.
- The group, supported by regional officials and civil society, filed cases in administrative courts across Paris, Lyon, and Marseille to defend citizens' right to information.
- Opponents denounce the bid as an 'environmental aberration' and 'democratic denial,' citing concerns over water resources and fragile mountain ecosystems.
- They also criticise the estimated financial burden of over €2.5 billion in public funds, given France's current deficit and debt crisis.
- The French bid, which combines mountain venues with ice sports in Nice, was swiftly approved by the International Olympic Committee in 2023 despite a tight timeline.