DG MOVE Study on the social dimension of the future EU transport system

The European Commission (DG MOVE) is conducting a study on the social dimension of the future EU transport system regarding users and passengers, which is being undertaken by its contractor Steer. The study is aiming to:

• Map the challenges and opportunities posed by the modernisation of the transport system across all modes to different groups of users (and in different Member States) in terms of affordability, reliability and accessibility (i.e. connectivity and usability);
• Describe the level of preparedness of different stakeholders, including transport authorities, in responding to trends impacting the modernisation of the transport system (e.g. decarbonisation, digitalisation, ageing populations, COVID-19);
• Understand how challenges can be overcome (or where opportunities exist) to ensure that transport users are at the centre of the future transport system and benefits reach all societal groups.

The user groups of specific interest include: people with low IT skills, disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility, elderly people, people living in remote and rural areas, women, young people and children, and people at-risk-of-poverty. Complex intersectionality issues across user groups and wider social dimension considerations for other user groups are also acknowledged.

It is important for the study that a wide range of stakeholders from across Europe have the opportunity to contribute. As such, Steer is carrying out a targeted consultation through April and May 2021 with transport user representatives, operators, social representatives, local and national transport authorities etc. Steer welcomes contributions for all interested stakeholders. If you would be happy to participate in the study through responding to a questionnaire, please get in touch by emailing Harry Clarke at social [dot] dimensionsteergroup [dot] com (social[dot]dimension[at]steergroup[dot]com).

Original article published by Ellen Durst on 17 May 2021