CER has called on the European Union to ensure future funding programmes support rail infrastructure, connectivity and regional development.
Credit: The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER)
From left to right: PKP Director Tomasz Lachowicz, CER Chair and CEO of PKP Alan Beroud, European Commission Executive Vice‑President Raffaele Fitto, and CER Executive Director Alberto Mazzola
The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies has urged European policymakers to place rail investment at the heart of the European Union’s next long-term budget, arguing that stronger connectivity is essential for supporting regional communities and economic growth.
The appeal comes as discussions continue on the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) covering the period from 2028 to 2034. CER believes the budget should support the emerging Right to Stay Strategy, which aims to ensure citizens can build successful lives in their local communities without being forced to relocate in search of opportunities.
As a member of the Freedom to Stay coalition coordinated by SGI Europe, CER recently presented recommendations to Raffaele Fitto, highlighting the importance of rail services in supporting social cohesion, mobility and economic development.
CER calls for stronger rail investment across Europe
According to CER, reliable rail transport plays a crucial role in connecting communities to employment, education, healthcare and essential services. Maintaining and modernising these links requires long-term funding and policy support.
The organisation has identified three key funding mechanisms that should work together within the future EU budget framework.
The first is a strong Connecting Europe Facility to support major rail corridors, cross-border links, interoperability projects and digitalisation initiatives included within the Trans-European Transport Network.
CER is also calling for National and Regional Partnership Plans to prioritise local rail infrastructure, including regional routes, stations, commuter services and last-mile connections that support smaller cities and rural communities.
A third recommendation focuses on the proposed European Competitiveness Fund, which CER believes should include dedicated support for rail investment to strengthen labour mobility, tourism, industrial supply chains and regional competitiveness.
Alan Beroud said railways and other essential service providers were ready to help ensure citizens had access to opportunities regardless of where they lived.
Meanwhile, Alberto Mazzola stressed that the Right to Stay Strategy would only succeed if supported by practical funding mechanisms capable of delivering long-term rail investment.
CER said it will continue working with European institutions and members of the Freedom to Stay coalition to promote a more connected, competitive and cohesive Europe.
No comments yet