Recommendations to boost women’s participation in the EU transport sector

The initiative is not only a step towards gender equality but also a strategic move to secure the sector‘s sustainability and resilience in the face of future challenges that accompany the green and digital transitions.

In an effort to close the gender gap and address staff shortages within the EU transport sector, the Women in Transport – EU Platform for Change has unveiled a set of practical advice aimed at attracting and retaining women in the industry. While women account for only 22% of transport workers in the EU, the set of recommendations seeks to challenge outdated norms and promote inclusion, which will eventually benefit all transport workers in all their diversity.

The document highlights several key areas for action, including improving work-life balance, ensuring equal pay, fostering career development, and creating a harassment-free workplace. A young generation needs new approaches such as involving influencers to showcase career opportunities in the sector. Among the innovative strategies proposed, the document emphasises the importance of mentorship programmes, flexible working conditions, and inclusive recruitment practices that focus on potentially over rigid qualifications.

By implementing these recommendations, the EU transport sector could build a more diverse and equitable workforce that can enhance service quality and better reflect the needs of all transport users. The initiative is not only a step towards gender equality but also a strategic move to secure the sector's sustainability and resilience in the face of future challenges that accompany the green and digital transitions.

Industry leaders, policymakers, and organisations are encouraged to adopt these actionable insights to make long-lasting changes that will propel the transport sector forward.