France’s national railway company, SNCF, is bracing for significant disruptions as multiple unions have called for strikes during the week of Monday, May 5. Despite numerous meetings between management and unions, a resolution has not been reached, making strike action inevitable. The extent of the disruptions, particularly during the upcoming long weekend (May 8 is a public holiday), remains uncertain.
Two of the four major unions, SUD-Rail and CGT, have initiated separate strike actions. SUD-Rail is calling on ticket inspectors (ASCTs) to strike on May 9, 10, and 11, and drivers to strike on May 7. The CGT has called for all inspectors and train conductors to strike starting May 5.
While distinct, the movements are related. SUD-Rail filed its strike notice in early April, claiming to have worked with the Collectif National ASCT (CNA), an informal group of inspectors known for organizing disruptive strikes in the past. The CNA claims to have initiated the movement. However, the CNA cannot file a strike notice themselves, as that power is reserved for the four officially recognized unions.
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