France’s high-speed rail service, TGV INOUI, is facing criticism after launching a new premium-class carriage that does not allow children. The move has sparked a wider debate about discrimination and
the growing demand for child-free public spaces.
Since January 8, the national rail operator SNCF has been offering a new “Optimum” class on several TGV INOUI routes to and from Paris. According to the SNCF Connect booking website, the service includes flexible tickets, dedicated customer support and a separate first-class carriage designed to offer privacy and a quiet space for passengers.
SNCF says the carriage has a limited number of seats and is designed for comfort. To keep the space quiet, children are not permitted.
On Friday, a first-class ticket from Paris to Lyon cost €132, while a seat in the child-free Optimum Plus carriage cost €180. Optimum Plus, which is only available on the Paris–Lyon route, also includes a personal host and meal service.
The decision has drawn strong reactions from politicians and members of the public. Some have called the policy discriminatory and linked it to the so-called “No Kids” movement, which supports child-free spaces. Sarah El Haïry, France’s High Commissioner for Children, warned that SNCF should not give in to pressure to exclude children.
Others said the policy sends the wrong message at a time when France is concerned about falling birth rates. Last year, the country recorded more deaths than births for the first time since the end of the Second World War.
SNCF Voyageurs has defended the move, saying the Optimum class is open to passengers aged 12 and over, as was the case with its previous Business Première service. A spokesperson said the Optimum seats make up just 8% of weekday capacity, while the rest of the train remains open to everyone.
The company added that TGV trains already offer family areas and nursery spaces, especially on weekends and during school holidays. SNCF said its services are designed for all passengers, including families.
(With inputs from CNN)
