World News

Eiffel Tower chief to resign after female staff removed during religious visit

Patrick Branco Ruivo will step down following an internal probe into the replacement of female employees by male colleagues.

Updated Sep 30, 2026 · 10:19 UTC3 reports

The short version

SETE announced that director general Patrick Branco Ruivo will step down at the end of the year following an internal investigation.[France 24 · BBC News]
An internal probe concluded that operational shortcomings led to female staff being replaced by male colleagues during a visit by around 100 people linked to the Hindu group BAPS.[France 24 · BBC News]
The incident triggered employee walkouts on September 8, the temporary closure of the landmark, and widespread condemnation from French political leaders.[France 24 · BBC News]
SETE's chair announced that gender equality training and operational measures will be implemented across the organization.[France 24 · BBC News]

Eiffel Tower operating company SETE announced director general Patrick Branco Ruivo will leave his position at the end of the year.[France 24 · BBC News]
An internal investigation found operational flaws and shortcomings led to the unacceptable removal of female employees during a visit by roughly 100 people tied to BAPS.[France 24 · BBC News]
Staff staged a walkout on September 8 and went on strike, causing the tower to temporarily close in protest of the decision.[France 24 · BBC News]
National Assembly President Yaël Braun-Pivet and Paris Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire strongly condemned the decision to sideline women.[BBC News]
BAPS issued an apology for any pain or inconvenience caused by the situation.[France 24 · BBC News]
SETE chair Ariel Weil requested the implementation of gender equality measures and training programs.[France 24 · BBC News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.