Crowd Management at the Olympic Games: Paris 2024 Example
Chapter from the book: Alaeddinoğlu, V. & Aktaş, B. S. & Siren, E. (eds.) 2024. Academic Research in Physical Education and Sport.

Muharrem Alparslan Kurudirek
Atatürk University

Synopsis

The Olympic Games are not only a showcase of sports competitions but also a platform that tests the host cities' infrastructure, logistical capacities, and security strategies on a global scale. In this context, crowd management plays a vital role in the successful execution of these events. Crowd management involves planning, risk analysis, and guidance systems aimed at ensuring the safe and orderly movement of large groups. It also seeks to optimize collective movement by considering the psychological and social behaviors of individuals.

The main challenges encountered in the Olympics include extreme congestion in transportation infrastructure, ensuring security at event venues, and responding swiftly to emergencies. During the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games, detailed logistical and security plans were implemented to address these issues. Measures such as pedestrian pathways, information screens, and digital solutions were introduced to enhance audience satisfaction. The Tokyo 2020 Olympics, held under pandemic conditions, stood out with innovative crowd control technologies, social distancing guidelines, and digital ticketing systems.

The role of technology has brought significant transformation to crowd management. Real-time monitoring systems, mobile applications, and AI-driven analyses have facilitated the safe and efficient management of events. The Paris 2024 Olympics aim to set an example with innovative transportation solutions aligned with carbon-neutral goals, augmented reality-based guidance systems, and AI-supported security protocols.

In conclusion, crowd management extends beyond ensuring the safety of the Olympic Games, becoming a decisive factor in environmental sustainability, logistical efficiency, and participant experience. In the future, data-driven technologies and smart city applications will further elevate the standards in this field. Moreover, effective planning, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable strategies will positively shape the social and environmental impacts of mega-events. Therefore, crowd management is not merely a safety measure but an indispensable strategy for the success of modern urbanization and large-scale organizations.

How to cite this book

Kurudirek, M. A. (2024). Crowd Management at the Olympic Games: Paris 2024 Example. In: Alaeddinoğlu, V. & Aktaş, B. S. & Siren, E. (eds.), Academic Research in Physical Education and Sport. Özgür Publications. DOI: https://doi.org/10.58830/ozgur.pub641.c2786

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Published

December 27, 2024

DOI