Tackling Transport Poverty: A Collaborative Approach to Achieving Accessible and Affordable Mobility for All

On March 12, 2025, experts gathered at the UITP – COTER Policy Conference to discuss a critical issue facing Europe: transport poverty. The event focused on the need for improved accessibility and affordability in transport, as well as policy solutions at the EU, national, and local levels.

Opening Remarks
The conference kicked off with the opening speeches by Mohamed Mezghani, UITP Secretary General, and Thomas Wobben, Director for Legislative Works at the European Committee of the Regions. Both speakers highlighted the growing urgency of tackling transport poverty, emphasising the need for coordinated action across the continent.

Expert Contributions
Erik von Breska, from DG MOVE, shared the European Commission’s commitment to addressing transport poverty, particularly in rural areas. He highlighted the importance of long-term investments and structural reforms, including the role of the Social Climate Fund (SCF) in supporting vulnerable populations. Von Breska also previewed the upcoming Commission strategy on transport poverty.

Minna Soininen of the Finnish Public Transport Association then spoke about balancing urban and rural accessibility, stressing the importance of inclusivity in transport planning. David Duran from the Technical University of Munich introduced the concept of “mobility justice,” framing it as a critical step towards greater social inclusion.

Key Sessions: Challenges and Solutions
Marie-Antoinette Maupertuis, President of the Corsican Assembly, discussed the unique challenges faced by island territories, where transport poverty is closely linked to economic and social isolation. In parallel, Maria Teresa Fabregas Fernandez from the European Commission highlighted the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), emphasising the facility’s role in funding sustainable transport infrastructure to benefit both urban and rural areas.

Affordability and Funding Mechanisms
Beatriz Yordi, Director at DG CLIMA, addressed the need for robust funding mechanisms, such as the Social Climate Fund, to ensure affordable mobility for all EU citizens, especially those in vulnerable situations. Marjeta Benčina from the FOCUS Association added that integrating sustainable and affordable mobility solutions into Eastern Europe’s transport strategies is essential for tackling regional disparities.

Closing Remarks: A Unified Approach for the Future
As the conference drew to a close, Thomas Avanzata, European Affairs Lead at UITP, reinforced the importance of public transport solutions in reducing transport poverty and improving mobility across Europe. Thomas Wobben concluded by stressing the need for tailored, region-specific solutions to create effective, accessible public transport systems for all citizens.

The conference underlined the need for a holistic and collaborative approach to tackling transport poverty and ensuring that everyone, regardless of where they live, has access to affordable and sustainable mobility options.