The ETF has expressed concern over the absence of social and employment considerations in a new European initiative aimed at accelerating the deployment of autonomous vehicles (AVs).
On 8 June, 18 EU Member States and the European Commission signed a Joint Declaration of Intent on large-scale cross-border testbeds for autonomous vehicles. The initiative seeks to establish common principles for approval and permitting procedures and to support the further deployment of autonomous vehicles across Europe, particularly in public transport, freight transport, and logistics.
While we recognise the potential of technological innovation in transport, we also warn that the declaration overlooks a critical factor: the workers whose jobs, working conditions, and futures will be directly affected by automation.
The deployment of autonomous vehicles will have an unprecedented impact on the transport workforce. Some jobs will disappear, new ones will emerge, and the organisation of work will be profoundly transformed.
The transition towards greater automation is not simply a technological issue but a social and political one. The federation argues that policymakers cannot ignore the employment consequences of AV deployment, particularly at a time when public transport, road freight, and logistics sectors are facing significant labour shortages.
Automation is not a substitute for workers
Autonomous vehicles alone can solve the workforce challenges currently affecting the transport sector. Even highly automated transport systems will continue to rely on workers to supervise operations, maintain and clean vehicles, manage charging infrastructure, recover vehicles in case of breakdowns, and ensure the safety and wellbeing of passengers and cargo.
Moreover, many of the difficulties faced by the sector stem from political and economic choices rather than technological limitations. Underinvestment, weak enforcement of labour and social standards, social dumping, and poor working conditions remain the primary drivers of recruitment and retention problems. These political problems cannot be solved by technology alone.
Workers must have a say: a just transition requires social dialogue
Yes, technological progress and innovation can improve safety, eliminate dangerous tasks, and enhance productivity. However, history demonstrates that technological transitions are most successful when workers and trade unions are involved from the outset. Where productivity gains are shared fairly and workers have a meaningful role in shaping change, social conflict can be minimised. Conversely, technology introduced without consultation often generates resistance and social unrest.
Autonomous vehicle deployment could lead to very different outcomes depending on the regulatory framework adopted. While automation could create better and safer jobs, it could also result in deskilling, offshoring, and deteriorating working conditions if social safeguards are not put in place.
ETF is calling for workers and their unions to be informed and consulted at every stage of AV deployment. This includes company-level discussions when projects are designed, national-level consultations when legislation is developed, and European-level engagement when new regulatory frameworks are proposed.
We also highlight the need for dedicated funding to support workers through the transition, including investment in reskilling and upskilling programmes as well as support measures for those whose jobs may be displaced by automation.
Meaningful social dialogue is not an optional addition to technological deployment – it is a prerequisite for acceptance and, ultimately, success.
Putting people at the centre of innovation
Transport workers remain essential to keeping Europe moving, ensuring that people and goods reach their destinations safely and efficiently. As autonomous vehicle technologies continue to develop, innovation must go hand in hand with social responsibility.
Together with our affiliates, we reaffirm that we are ready to work constructively with the European Commission, national governments, employers, and industry stakeholders to shape the future of mobility.
While autonomous vehicles may transform transport, they will not eliminate the need for transport workers. The challenge now is to ensure that the jobs of the future are better, safer, and more secure than the jobs of today.