The report, which assessed the implementation of the 2021 binding European Social Partner Agreement on Women in Rail, shows that women now represent 23% of the railway workforce, up from 21% in 2018. Among new hires, the proportion of women has reached 25%, signalling positive momentum for the future of the sector. While we celebrate the progress made, with women now representing nearly a quarter of the railway workforce, we recognise there is still work to be done to achieve full implementation of our agreement.

Within the framework of the Social Sectoral Dialogue on Railways, the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) and the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) have issued a joint statement emphasizing the pivotal role of rail freight in Europe’s transition to a sustainable and efficient transport system. That statement effectively highlights the importance of focusing on key areas to ensure the future success and competitiveness of rail freight in the EU. It also emphasizes the need for decision-makers to enhance the overall competitiveness framework by implementing specific measures.

ETF and CER have issued a joint recommendation for the revision of the Train Drivers Directive outlining suggestions for a certification scheme and communication approach that ensures railway safety, operational efficiency, and workers’ health and safety.