France has lowered its terrorism threat alert level

France’s national security alert system, known as Vigipirate, had its level reduced yesterday January 15.

The national Vigipirate level was previously at urgence attentat, the highest of the three possible levels, following the stabbing of a teacher in Arras in October 2023.

At this level, additional resources can be deployed for anti-terrorist operations, including the use of more armed police on the streets, and an increase in armed soldiers deployed in public as part of opération Sentinelle.

It also allows for information on how to protect citizens to be disseminated to public figures and businesses.

However, it can only be maintained at this level for a limited period of time.

Read more: What is France’s Vigipirate alert system?

What level is the system at now?

The Vigipirate system is now at level two, or sécurité renforcée (heightened security risk).

The levels can sometimes be raised or lowered locally, but the recent switch to this tier happened across the country.

Unlike the higher urgence attentat level, this tier has no fixed duration, and can remain in place for as long as the government deems necessary.

It allows for increased security measures, specifically at larger gatherings of people, and currently has a particular focus on security regarding the 2024 Olympic Games, set to be held in Paris this summer.

You can read more about the system on the French government website here.

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