The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) stands in solidarity with our French affiliate unions CGT Cheminots, UNSA-Ferroviaire and CFDT Cheminots as they demand adequate funding for France’s critical railway infrastructure during the ongoing “Ambition France Transports” government funding conference.
Critical Funding Gap Threatens European Rail Network
The stakes could not be higher. France needs an additional €2 billion in funding by 2027 just to maintain, regenerate, and modernise its existing rail network infrastructure – not to build new lines, but simply to preserve what already exists at current performance standards. This funding crisis extends beyond France’s borders, representing a fundamental challenge to Europe’s sustainable transport future.
The consequences of inaction are clear:
- Network degradation leading to speed restrictions and line closures
- Reduced rail services and connectivity
- Declining railway employment across the sector
- Compromised safety and operational standards
- Undermined climate commitments and environmental goals
A Matter of Public Interest and Climate Action
Rail infrastructure funding is not merely a technical issue – it represents a question of the common good and shared destiny. At a time when Europe must dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a robust rail network is essential infrastructure for achieving our climate targets. More trains mean better environmental outcomes, improved safety, enhanced territorial development, and quality employment.
The degradation of rail networks directly impacts working conditions and threatens the livelihoods of railway workers across Europe. Without adequate investment, we risk entering a downward spiral of reduced services, job losses, and diminished public transport options.
Rejecting Privatization of Public Infrastructure
The ETF shares the concerns of our French affiliates regarding proposals for private investment in public railway infrastructure emerging from the “Ambition France Transports” conference. Public rail infrastructure must remain under public control and receive adequate public funding to serve the broader social, environmental, and economic interests of European citizens.
We cannot allow private interests to dictate the future of essential public transport infrastructure. The railway network is a cornerstone of sustainable mobility and must be developed to meet social, environmental, and territorial needs rather than profit margins.
European Solidarity in Action
The ETF calls on European policymakers to recognise that rail infrastructure investment is not a national issue but a European imperative. The challenges facing France’s rail network are mirrored across many EU member states, where decades of underinvestment have left critical infrastructure vulnerable.
We urge:
- European institutions to prioritise rail infrastructure funding in future budget allocations
- National governments to commit to adequate long-term rail investment strategies
- Transport ministers to recognise rail infrastructure as an essential public service requiring sustained public funding
