This month marks the publication of the Mobility4EU Action Plan, which sets out a roadmap to deliver on a vision of user-centred, cross-modal transport across the EU by 2030.

Tremendous changes in society and economy over the past decades have resulted in a need for restless innovation and progress of transportation systems. Beyond convenience, mobility has far-reaching effects on an individual’s ability to engage in their community, maintain social relations, access primary and secondary healthcare, pursue a career and receive mental health support amongst others. These economic and social discrepancies have been exacerbated by recent ageing trends.

In response to this challenge, modal transport sectors are continuously advancing their research agendas. Nevertheless, these efforts remain fragmented within modal silos. In order to reach European goals towards sustainability and efficiency and to meet the transport and mobility needs of all European citizens, a truly integrated and seamless transport system for people and freight must be developed and implemented, exploiting the full potential of transformative technologies. This can only be achieved by putting the user at the centre of transport and mobility planning. User-centredness, cross-modality and technology transfer must become a focus of efforts for all transport stakeholders.

Over the past 3 years, the ILC has been a delivery partner of Mobility4EU, a multi-stakeholder initiative supported by the European Commission, which has worked to deliver a vision and Action Plan for cross-modal, user-centred transport in the EU. The vision focuses on the social aspects of transport, including mobility planning, inclusive planning, accessibility, affordability, automation and safety in transport.

Following the publication of the Action Plan, the ILC will be holding a policy debate in Brussels on 26 March to discuss how policymakers and practitioners can deliver on the plan to create user-centred and inclusive transport for all by 2030, and what the practical implications are for member countries.