France: Rail strikes to continue through June /update 1

Event

Domestic rail services as well as international Eurostar and Thalys trains will continue to face disruptions in the coming weeks due to ongoing strikes by French rail workers. The strikes are currently set to take place on the following dates: June 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 22, 23, 27, and 28. While participation rates - and thus disruptions - have been falling, unions are pushing for increased participation on June 12 to coincide with a vote on rail reforms scheduled to take place in the Senate.

Trains running on high-speed lines (TGVs), the Transilien network (Greater Paris region), TER networks (regional trains), and Intercités lines (inter-city) could all be affected, along with international trains operated by Eurostar and Thalys. Increased road traffic congestion is also to be anticipated on strike days in and around cities. 

Context

The SNCF strikes have been organized to protest reforms to the national rail system proposed by President Emmanuel Macron. Among the reforms are a phased plan to abolish the SNCF's monopoly on passenger rail in France, modifications to the structure of the SNCF to make it a joint-stock company, and changes to SNCF worker contracts to bring them in line with employee protections in other sectors.

Advice

Individuals traveling to, from, or via France by train are advised to confirm rail reservations and timetables and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.