Addressing transport poverty requires that transport services be available, accessible, affordable, and safe for all. This includes women, seniors, young people, people with disabilities, and those with low incomes – whether they live in rural, remote, or urban areas. By prioritising these principles, policymakers can ensure equitable access to transport, enabling greater social and economic inclusion across Europe.

We often assume that access to clean and safe sanitation for everyone is a demand of the past in Europe. However, this fundamental human right in Europe’s transport sector is still often neglected. With the lack of sanitation or its poor quality, the transport industry is driving workers away from the industry, especially women.

On 6 and 7 November 2024, the ETF Women’s Committee convened in Brussels for its plenary meeting, bringing together 35 participants from unions across Europe. Held at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), the meeting featured discussions on pressing issues affecting women workers in the transport sector and beyond.

The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) has taken a step in advocating for the safety and well-being of civil aviation workers with the launch of its “Get Me Home Safely Campaign” for the Aviation sector. A video on the safety of aviation workers was unveiled during a joint webinar with the Airport Regions Council (ARC), shedding light on the often-overlooked issue of safe commuting for airport employees, especially women. In the next weeks, new videos will be released.

ETF remains dedicated to fighting and promoting gender equality and fully supports its union members’ efforts devoted to gender equality. An ETF Women’s Committee delegation joined the 14 June major women’s equality rally in Switzerland, a traditional event championing for women’s rights.