The International Association of Public Transport (UITP) has published a set of recommendations addressed to the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union, highlighting the opportunity Cyprus has to address the major challenges facing the public transport sector at European level.
UITP welcomes the fact that the program of the Cypriot Presidency includes several priorities that are central to the concerns of public transport operators and authorities, from passenger rights to the decarbonization of fleets.
According to the organization, these issues are essential for a sector that ensures the daily mobility of millions of citizens and is a pillar of a modern and sustainable Europe.
Clear and predictable funding for public transport
One of UITP’s main requests is to advance negotiations on European funding for public transport in the future Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).
The organization stresses that adequate and predictable funding is a prerequisite for achieving the EU’s climate, social inclusion, and competitiveness objectives.
UITP proposes the creation of a permanent European Transport Investment Fund, which would enable the long-term financing of decarbonization projects.
This instrument would support in particular urban, regional, cross-border, and rural passenger transport, both road and rail, including infrastructure, rolling stock, and related facilities.
According to UITP, such a fund would provide operators and public authorities with the predictability they need to plan their investments.
Legislative clarity and consistent rules
UITP draws attention to the importance of a clear and consistent legislative framework in the context of the EU’s ambitions to accelerate the decarbonization of corporate fleets and change public procurement rules.
Although legislative intent is essential, success will depend, according to the organization, on how the regulations are drafted and applied in practice.
The organization warns that new regulations must complement existing legislation, avoiding overlaps, contradictory provisions, and unnecessary administrative burdens.
Such an approach would allow operators to plan their investments more efficiently and support the transition to clean mobility.
Strengthening passenger rights
Protecting and improving passenger rights remains a key priority for UITP.
However, the organization warns that a lack of legal clarity and unrealistic proposals can have the opposite effect, creating confusion for both operators and passengers.
UITP stresses that new regulations must take into account the specific local situations managed by the competent authorities, including ticketing systems and services for people with disabilities.
Legislation on passenger rights should be clear, enforceable, and effective, contributing to an improved travel experience and increased confidence in public transport.
Reducing regional disparities
UITP welcomes the emphasis placed by the Cypriot Presidency on the challenges faced by peripheral regions, where access to reliable public transport is often limited and transport poverty remains a major issue.
The organization believes that these issues must be fully reflected in EU policies and funding instruments.
In this context, UITP highlights the role of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), which should support not only high-speed and long-distance connections, but also local and regional networks, which are essential for the daily mobility of communities.
Investments should promote inclusive, sustainable, and affordable transport solutions so that no region is left behind.
Public transport, a strategic priority for Europe
“Local public transport carries a huge number of passengers every day, supports efficient land use, and generates significant energy savings.
In short, this is where European mobility begins and where it must remain a priority,” said Alberto Alonso Poza, President of the UITP EU Committee.
UITP says it is ready to work closely with the Cypriot Presidency during its term to translate these priorities into clear, effective and enforceable measures for the public transport sector in Europe.
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