International Association of Public Transport (UITP)

UITP supports the principle of European preference, which helps bolster the European industry while strengthening the Unions competitiveness and security. To ensure its effectiveness, UITP is calling for a pragmatic "Made in EU" approach in the framework of the IAA: One that simplifies its implementation without adding administrative burdens or creating red tape for public transport operators (PTOs) and authorities…

The International Association of Public Transport (UITP) and its members are fully committed to climate protection and the objectives set out in the European Green Deal. Amongst motorised transport, public transport has always been the most sustainable way of travelling. New EU legislation should help to promote public transport services.

UITP shares the Commission's ambition for better protection for passengers and their rights, especially in a multimodal perspective. Passengers are at the centre of public transport operations. The public transport sector therefore shares the following contribution to this initiative aiming at improving the passenger rights regulatory framework, addressing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic.

UITP and its members work towards ensuring that rail services in Europe are attractive and reliable, and that passengers are informed and assisted adequately when traveling. We would first like to underline that train punctuality and level of service can be improved first and foremost by modernising and improving rail infrastructure, and by attracting new workforce.

UITP supports EU efforts to simplify and harmonise budget monitoring, but warns against increased reporting burdens. Flexibility in indicators and proportionality for small projects are essential. UITP calls for accessible, granular data on beneficiaries, a transparent portal for calls with multi-year visibility, and easier funding access for all stakeholders.