In Germany we have similar reliability issues I think as in France. They stem from two issues. First, that workers strikes are acceptable, and second that the infrastructure is often old and in disrepair.

The first reason is obviously cultural, but forbidding workers from striking would have some knock-on effects that the rest of society may not appreciate. The second reason, at least in Germany, has a lot to do with the semi-privatization of our train system which doesn't have inventives to invest in it's infrastructure and due it's cozy market position enabling rent-seeking.

The first problem, at least in the cities, could be solved with grade 4 automated metro according to the example of Copenhagen. The trains even drive much better than human drivers there, with no abrupt stops.

This would create unemployment, but it wouldn't infringe on people's rights.

The second problem we would have to solve by replacing the politicians that enable this. A much more difficult undertaking.