The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) has voiced strong support for French railway unions CGT Cheminots, UNSA-Ferroviaire and CFDT Cheminots, as they push for critical public funding during the ongoing “Ambition France Transports” government conference.
EUR 2 billion funding shortfall risks network integrity
France’s existing rail network faces a funding gap of EUR 2 billion by 2027 – not for new development, but simply to maintain and modernise existing infrastructure. Without action, unions and the ETF warn of widespread consequences: service reductions, deteriorating safety, job losses, and broader setbacks to European climate and mobility goals.
The Federation highlighted the implications for Europe as a whole, noting that the crisis in France mirrors infrastructure challenges across many EU member states. “This is not just a French issue,” the federation noted, “but a European one.”
Impacts of inaction
Without renewed investment, rail unions and the ETF warn of several risks, including:
- Increased speed restrictions and line closures due to network degradation
- Reduced connectivity and rail service availability
- Declining employment in the rail sector
- Weakened safety and operational standards
- Setbacks to climate and decarbonisation objectives
“More trains mean less emissions,” the ETF said, stressing the role of rail in meeting Europe’s climate goals. “Allowing infrastructure to deteriorate undermines years of progress.”
ETF rejects the role of private capital
Unions and the ETF also raised concerns over proposals to introduce private investment in public rail infrastructure, as reportedly discussed during the “Ambition France Transports” conference. The ETF reaffirmed its position that rail networks must remain publicly owned and publicly funded.
“We cannot allow private interests to dictate the future of essential public transport infrastructure,” the ETF stated. “The railway is a public good – its development should serve social and environmental needs, not shareholder returns.”
Rail investment as European imperative
Calling for a coordinated European response, the ETF urged EU institutions and national governments alike to treat rail infrastructure as a long-term public investment priority. It called on:
- European institutions to prioritise rail infrastructure funding in future budget frameworks
- National governments to commit to sustainable long-term rail investment strategies
- Transport ministers to reaffirm that rail is a public service requiring consistent public support
The ETF warned that continued underinvestment could lead to a downward spiral of deteriorating service, weakened safety standards, and public disillusionment with sustainable transport.
“Investment in rail is investment in Europe’s future,” the ETF concluded.
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