Saudi Arabia to invest in theme parks near Paris
French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have signed a memorandum of understanding on the financing of three new theme parks in the Paris region. Six billion euros are to be used to build among other things a theme park based on the manga series Dragon Ball Z, of which both leaders are fans.
Ecologically catastrophic
This is a disastrous project, warns Libération:
“The world's leading oil producer is investing in France. Is it to prepare the country for temperatures of 50 degrees? To reduce the carbon footprint caused by the oil that once brought prosperity to the country and comfort to us? No, this Saudi 'gift' will lead to thousands of hectares of land being covered in concrete. At a time when all scientists are emphasising the need to increase soil porosity, particularly in areas close to towns and cities. These investments in a region that already boasts the best leisure infrastructure in the country will only reinforce a model of mass tourism and carbon-intensive entertainment – a model we know is harmful to the environment.”
Selling off the Grande Nation
There is no real advantage for France's economy in this project, laments Saïd Mahrane, editor-in-chief of Le Point:
“Saudi soft power paired with Japanese soft power. Such is the state of France, which is becoming a playground for foreign powers. We would have welcomed the announcement of a promising sector, a strategic French investment, but no. Instead we settle for a rollercoaster and fairytale-themed attractions. France, to quote Houellebecq, is a 'tourist brothel'. It has lost its industrial strength and is selling off its land, its heritage and its landscapes. People will no doubt welcome the new jobs that have been announced, without, however, mentioning that most of them will be low-skilled and poorly paid.”
Beneficial family experiences
La Croix highlights the positive aspects of theme parks:
“On paper, the accusations are straightforward: megalomania, devastating environmental impact, consumerism, mass tourism, where the money is coming from. ... There is a grain of truth in each of these criticisms, but they can't sidestep an equally important question: what is the reason for all of this enthusiasm? What vital requirements do amusement parks fulfil? Go to one and take a good look. Entire families are brought together, different generations spend time with each other, teenagers laugh, adults experience thrills. The importance of experiencing physical sensations together should not be underestimated at a time when our human relationships are becoming increasingly virtual and our cultural practices are becoming ever more individualised.”