As part of its effort to make the upcoming festival as safe as possible, Cannes Lions organizers have added three designated “safe zones” at this year’s event. It’s part of the organization’s overall effort to boost inclusivity and safety at the Festival. 

The addition of the safe zones follows reports at last year’s festival of incidents where festival-goers felt harassed. Similar incidents were reported at the festival in previous years as well. 

A Cannes Lions spokesperson indicated that no single event triggered the decision to add the safe zones, including the Empower Cafe -- a group that fosters inclusivity programs in the advertising, media and tech industries -- directly across The Croisette from the Palais des Festivals. The Palais is where the award ceremonies and many of the panel sessions at the show are convened.  

“Our commitment to safeguarding has evolved through active listening, feedback and collaboration,” the spokesperson stated in response to a query. “The Festival should be a place where everyone feels welcome and safe,” the spokesperson added. “That's why we're continuing to work hand-in-hand with our delegates, partners, communities, and local authorities, creating an environment where everyone feels respected and included. 

Earlier the organization formed the Community Safeguarding Committee, that includes timeTo, a group dedicated to eradicating sexual harassment in the ad-marketing industry. 

Brixton Finishing School, which offers courses to underrepresented talent, Vingt Sept Magazine, female empowerment group Milk Honey Bees, wellness group ITAV, Empowerment Cafe and others are also involved. 

The safe zones are "each staffed by trained safeguarding professionals," according to a Festival bulletin. "These are safe, confidential spaces available to anyone who feels uncomfortable or needs support." Teams will work with on-site Festival security to help manage situations "appropriately and discreetly," per the bulletin. "In serious or urgent cases, we will escalate to local authorities to ensure all parties are protected and the matter is handled according to local legal protocols."

Also new this year, London-based inclusive marketing agency Purple Goat will be conducting a detailed accessibility audit of the Festival, confirmed the spokesperson. The audit is designed to “expand our existing framework for accessibility and inclusion and is a significant step forward in ensuring everyone can enjoy their delegate experience.” 

This year's Festival runs from June 16-20.