“In view of SNCB’s refusal to change its pricing policy, we have instructed our lawyers to appear before the Brussels Court of First Instance”explains the director of Unia, Patrick Charlier. The spokesperson for Test-Achats, Julie Frère, adds: “We cannot accept that some people who cannot or do not wish to follow the digital train should be penalised, especially for essential services, such as transport. Especially from a public company”The deadlines for the procedure will be communicated later, explain the two associations united with one voice in this legal battle.
A worsening of the digital divide
Specifically, SNCB is accused of making a price distinction between its digital users, able to use their digital tools, and customers who prefer – by choice or not – physical sales (terminals or counters). According to the pair of organizations, travelers who do not have sufficient financial resources to afford a smartphone and individuals in a situation of digital fragility must pay the full price. As an example, the associations cite the 10-journey ticket (Standard Multi) offered three euros more expensive at the terminals. Or its equivalent, intended for under-26s (Youth Multi), whose version online costs two euros less. The duo is also surprised to see the Flex subscription available only on the app.
quotation markWe cannot accept that some people who cannot or do not wish to follow the digital train should be penalized, especially for essential services, such as transport. Especially from a public company.
“People in precarious situations are therefore subject to a double penalty. However, no legal provision requires citizens to have a telephone or a data subscription. Illegal practices are maintained while leaving the consumer alone.”recalled Jean-Philippe Ducart, communications director at Test-Achats, last July in the columns of The Free. However, according to a study conducted under the auspices of the King Baudouin Foundation, the technological divide is far from being a minor problem. In June 2024, the latest Inclusion Barometer estimated that four out of ten Belgians are in a situation of digital vulnerability.
Why is your train “slightly” late? From now on, SNCB will have to justify the causes of non-punctuality of its trains
When contacted, SNCB stated that it did not subscribe to the position taken by the Unia-Test-Achats tandem: “Presenting a differentiated offer according to the sales channel remains a widespread practice. Whether it is the standards of national, European and international law, no legislation prohibits it. A large majority of economic and social actors, exercising public service missions, use it. Our desire to encourage the use of digital channels remains a legitimate objective. The promotion of these tools is carried out by SNCB in a proportional manner and taking into account all passengers.
