European Commission Expert Group adopts recommendations on transport workers
In a landmark move, the Commission Expert Group on Urban Mobility (EGUM) set up by the European Commission under the 2021 EU Urban Mobility Framework, has introduced its debut set of recommendations, spotlighting the urgency to prioritize public transport, promote inclusivity, and address the critical workforce challenges within the sector. During its recent plenary meeting on January 16, EGUM showcased its commitment to revitalizing urban mobility across Europe, engaging Member States, cities, regions, and key stakeholders in a revitalized dialogue. Within this subgroup on public transport, our project partners, POLIS Network and ERTICO substantially contributed. Among the array of strategic recommendations, a notable focus is placed on addressing the labor and skill shortages plaguing the public transport sector, affected by technological advancements that are rapidly reshaping the demand and skill set required, signaling a key moment for the future of European urban mobility.
The Reccomendations "How to deal with the worker shortage and evolving skill requirements of the public transport sector" is a comprehensive study that delves into the multifaceted challenges facing transport workers across Europe, underlining the pressing issue of labor and skill shortages within the sector. It begins by outlining the critical role that transport workers play in ensuring the efficient functioning of public transport systems, which are fundamental to the socio-economic fabric of European cities and regions. The analysis identifies several key factors contributing to these shortages, including demographic changes, the aging workforce, competition from other sectors for skilled labor, and the evolving nature of work due to technological advancements.
One of the primary concerns highlighted is the demographic shift, with a significant portion of the current workforce nearing retirement age. This situation is exacerbated by a decreasing interest among younger generations in pursuing careers within the transport sector, partly due to perceived poor working conditions, low wages, and the lack of career advancement opportunities. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological change demands new skills, leading to a mismatch between the existing workforce's capabilities and the sector's evolving requirements.
The report extensively discusses the impact of these challenges on the efficiency and sustainability of public transport services. It stresses the importance of attracting a new generation of transport workers and the need for significant improvements in training and professional development programs to equip them with the necessary skills for modern, technologically advanced transport systems.
To address these issues, the recommendations provide a multifaceted strategy aimed at making the transport sector more attractive to potential employees. This includes enhancing working conditions, increasing wages, and providing clearer career progression paths. It also emphasizes the importance of gender diversity and inclusivity in broadening the pool of potential workers.
Furthermore, the recommendations call for a collaborative effort among stakeholders, including public transport operators, government authorities, educational institutions, and industry organizations, to implement these strategies effectively. This includes the development of targeted recruitment campaigns, the establishment of apprenticeship and training programs, and the promotion of the transport sector as a viable and rewarding career choice.
Case studies included in the document showcase successful initiatives from various European countries, providing practical examples of how targeted interventions can alleviate labor shortages and improve the quality of public transport services. These range from targeted recruitment drives, partnerships with educational institutions to provide relevant training, to initiatives aimed at improving the sector's image and attractiveness as an employer.
In conclusion, the EGUM Subgroup presents a comprehensive roadmap for addressing the labor and skill shortages facing the transport sector. By focusing on improving working conditions, enhancing training and development opportunities, and fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce, it argues that the sector can overcome these challenges. The success of these measures, however, hinges on the collective effort and commitment of all stakeholders involved, underscoring the need for a coordinated and strategic approach to workforce development in the transport sector.