Controversy over keeping female staff away from Hindu delegation’s visit, Eiffel Tower chief to resign

September 30, 2026

Patrick Branco Ruivo, head of the company that operates the Eiffel Tower in Paris, will step down at the end of 2026. This decision comes after a controversy over keeping female staff away from certain areas during a visit by a Hindu religious delegation.

Ruivo is the director general of the Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE). He announced his resignation following an independent investigation into the arrangements for the delegation’s visit on September 5th.

Investigation reveals several deficiencies

The independent investigation revealed several deficiencies in the organization and conduct of the visit. According to the report, some female staff were kept away from certain areas and responsibilities during the delegation’s visit.

SETE called the entire incident unacceptable and acknowledged that the arrangements made for the tour did not meet the company’s standards.

Staff demonstrated in support of female employees

Following this incident, Eiffel Tower employees held a one-day strike on September 7th, forcing the monument to be temporarily closed.

During the strike, employees protested the treatment of female staff and issues related to gender equality.

The delegation was affiliated with BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha). Following the controversy, BAPS expressed regret over the incident and apologized for any inconvenience caused.

Ruivo to step down at the end of 2026

Ruivo has been head of SETE since 2018 and will step down at the end of this year. According to the company, the investigation revealed deficiencies in the planning and organization of official visits.

SETE Chairman Ariel Weil has called for training and other steps to strengthen gender equality within the organization.