Eiffel Tower Reopens Following Strike Over Gender Equality Concerns
By Editor • September 11, 2026 • 1 min read
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, resumed operations on Tuesday, September 8, after a one-day closure prompted by a staff strike over the treatment of female employees during a recent private visit.
Staff Walkout Sparks Closure
The iconic landmark was closed following a protest by employees who raised concerns after a Hindu delegation of around 100 individuals visited on Saturday. This group, associated with the BAPS Hindu organization, was in Paris for the inauguration of a temple in Bussy-Saint-Georges.
Allegations of Discrimination
According to the CGT union, the arrangements made during the visit led to female staff being relocated away from certain areas, with male colleagues replacing them. The union condemned this as discriminatory and detrimental to gender equality, asserting that it was unacceptable for women to be sidelined based on their gender.
Operator Responds to Controversy
The Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), which manages the tower, admitted that it made a misstep by agreeing to conditions that compromised the principle of gender equality. They expressed regret over the arrangements that led to the exclusion of female employees from their roles.
While BAPS has denied requesting the exclusion of women, stating that their visit was coordinated to limit disruption without any intention of gender discrimination, the situation has raised pressing questions about the balance between accommodating private groups and maintaining equality in public spaces.
Source: www.getaway.co.za
