French rail workers launched a 24-hour strike on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, causing widespread cancellations across the national SNCF network [1], [3].
The walkout represents a coordinated effort by the country's four primary labor unions to force concessions from rail management during a period of systemic change. Because the SNCF serves as the backbone of French transit, these disruptions affect millions of commuters and travelers nationwide.
The scale of the disruption is significant, with one in three TGV high-speed trains cancelled [3]. Additionally, one in two Intercités trains have been removed from the schedule [3]. Regional traffic, including TER, RER, and Transilien services, is also heavily disrupted [2], [4].
The CGT union said nearly one in two rail workers are participating in the strike [2]. This high participation rate has crippled the ability of the network to maintain standard operating levels during the 24-hour window [4].
Union leaders are protesting against the ongoing filialization and reorganization of the SNCF group [3], [4]. These structural changes involve splitting certain operations into separate subsidiaries, a move the unions argue undermines the integrity of the national rail service.
Beyond structural concerns, the representatives of the four unions said they are demanding new salary increases [3]. They describe the current reorganizations as a threat to worker stability, and the quality of the public transport system.
Travelers have faced significant delays as the strike impacts both long-distance and daily regional lines [2], [4]. The coordination between the CGT and other major unions indicates a unified front against the current management strategy of the state-owned rail operator.
“One in three TGV high-speed trains cancelled”
This strike highlights a deepening conflict between the SNCF's modernization goals and the labor protections sought by French unions. The focus on 'filialization' suggests that the transition toward a more corporate, fragmented structure is meeting strong resistance from workers who fear a loss of status and benefits. By targeting both high-speed TGV lines and regional commuter rails, the unions are attempting to maximize economic pressure on the government to secure higher wages and halt structural reforms.
