EUROPEAN MOBILITY WEEK theme announced for 2024

The theme for EUROPEANMOBILITYWEEK 2024 has been announced as 'Shared Public Space'. 

EUROPEANMOBILITYWEEK takes place from 16 to 22 September 2024 every year. It is an annual initiative of the European Commission to promote sustainable urban mobility within Europe by asking European cities and towns to devote one week to sustainable mobility. Each year it ends with a dedicated 'Car-Free Day', on 22 September. 

Shared public space is an important factor for any society. It is a designated space for citizens to congregate and share their environment. With 70% of Europeans living in urban areas, it is important to cultivate these spaces within our urban environments. Dedicated spaces for people, transport modes, and activities offer more space which improves social equity and road safety, reduces noise and air pollution, and ensures a better quality of life. 

In particular, vulnerable road users account for 70% of urban road fatalities. Prioritising these individuals when allocating public space can improve their safety. Additionally, improved public space and high-quality infrastructure that prioritises pedestrians and cyclists can encourage individuals to spend more time outside walking and cycling. 

Public authorities have the tools to implement policy and infrastructure that centres the well-being of individuals and supports a permanent transition towards sustainable mobility. This year's EUROPEANMOBILITYWEEK is dedicated to improving our shared public spaces, and to raise awareness of their importance and potential for improving urban life. 

There are four main goals for this year's EUROPEANMOBILITYWEEK: 

1. Experiencing public space in a different way
2. Redeveloping urban space together 
3. School Streets: Creating safe space for active travel 
4. Planning and designing safer streets 

If you'd like to read more about these goals and how public authorities are being encouraged to take part, you can read the factsheet here.