UNIFE calls for increased EU rail funding to strengthen resilience, reduce fossil fuel reliance and support sustainable transport across Europe.
Europe risks remaining vulnerable to repeated energy shocks unless it accelerates investment in electrified-rail, according to UNIFE.
The warning follows renewed geopolitical tensions impacting global energy markets, highlighting the continent’s continued reliance on aviation and road transport. UNIFE argues that without a strategic shift towards rail, European supply chains, businesses and citizens will continue to face economic disruption.
Call for increased EU rail funding
UNIFE Director General Enno Wiebe has urged policymakers to prioritise rail investment through the Connecting Europe Facility, part of the European Union’s upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028 to 2034.
The current allocation of €51.5 billion is considered insufficient, with UNIFE calling for at least €100 billion to deliver meaningful improvements to the European rail network.
Proposed investment areas include cross border rail infrastructure, military mobility projects and development of a future high-speed rail network. Funding would also support deployment of key technologies such as the European Rail Traffic Management System and Digital Automatic Coupling, improving interoperability and efficiency.
Rail is already the most environmentally friendly mode of transport, accounting for just 0.3 per cent of Europe’s transport related emissions. However, its freight market share has declined in recent years, underlining the need for renewed focus on rail development.
Wiebe warned that failure to invest will leave Europe exposed to rising fossil fuel costs, which can drive inflation and increase the cost of goods and services across the economy.
He added that long term investment certainty and procurement reform are essential to ensure the European rail supply industry remains competitive.
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