Invest in Public Transport, Invest in our Future
Today we are celebrating public transport. It’s a global celebration of the millions of journeys that move us across the world and of the people who make them possible. From everyday commutes to extraordinary destinations, it’s a day to celebrate how public transport connects us all – to people, to life.
World Public Transport Day is a chance to shine a light on what public transport makes possible and why its central role in our life must be recognised.
Public transport is essential to society and daily life
Because public transport isn’t just about getting around. It’s about getting on. It helps people access jobs, education and opportunities. It cuts carbon and connects communities. Helps to create safer cities and healthier people. Brings freedom, independence, and a sense of place. And it does all this all day, every day – all powered by people.
Public transport delivers strong economic, health and environmental value
Public transport powers our economy. By enabling access for all, it creates value, supports local businesses, and sustains jobs—both within the sector and across the wider economy. A champion of economic development, with every investment in public transport generating a five-to-one economic return.
Public transport is one of the safest modes of mobility. Cities with well-developed public transport systems consistently experience lower road fatality rates. Fewer cars means fewer accidents and safer streets for everyone.
Public transport also stands with people when times are hard. Again and again, it has proven its ability to keep societies moving through crises and disruption. That is why it is essential to our cities and territories. It is also why it benefits from such a high level of commitment from its dedicated workers.
Governments must prioritise and sustainably support the sector
On this day, marking the first edition of World Public Transport Day – celebrated every 17 April – and in line with our commitment to the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport, we call on governments and public authorities to make public transport a clear priority—and to support it as a strategic, critical asset for our communities.
And as a priority, public transport must receive the highest level of public support—so it can operate efficiently, remain affordable, and be protected when economies are hit by volatile energy prices and wider shocks. Its infrastructure must be maintained, its resilience strengthened, and its security guaranteed with the necessary means.
This priority must also be translated into long-term financial sustainability through reliable, structural, predictable funding—protected from short-term changes.
Public transport is constantly innovating to meet future challenges
Public transport is steadily reducing its vulnerability, to external shocks – particularly those impacting energy supply – through increased electrification in many regions of the world.
At the same time, the sector continues to innovate, adapt and evolve, embracing new technologies and a wide range of collective and shared mobility to meet the diverse and changing needs of society.
Public transport is a cornerstone of the transition to more sustainable and resilient societies, enhancing urban energy efficiency, energy security, and reduce urban transport emissions by up to 50%.
We call on all decision-makers to commit to equipping public transport with the resources it needs to deliver mobility to their citizens. Our sector is not only seeking support – but we are also actively doing our part: innovating, improving, and remaining steadfast in our commitment to serve people and communities. As a driver of mobility, economic prosperity, social inclusion, and environmental benefits.
