The Future of European Rail: Enhancing Capacity and Cross-Border Services

Published on February 15, 2026

To improve the European railway system Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) and the European Rail Supply Industry Association (UNIFE) have signed a joint declaration of collaboration. Signed on February 2, 2026 in Brussels, the declaration focuses on the future of the rail system in Europe and prioritizes the elements of cross-border investment, innovation, and integration .

Strategic Priorities for Europe’s Rail Network

The declaration emphasizes several key priorities that will guide the development of the European rail sector in the coming years. These include enhancing capacity, improving safety, fostering innovation, and streamlining cross-border rail services. Both CER and UNIFE are committed to making Europe’s railways more competitive, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Investment in Infrastructure and Research

One of the central elements of the declaration is the call for substantial investments in both infrastructure and research and development. The rail sector recognizes that, in an era of increasing competition and growing modernization needs, securing adequate EU funding and political support is crucial. The investment priorities outlined in the declaration focus on the creation of a European high-speed rail network, enhancing military mobility, and ensuring the deployment of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) across the continent.

The Role of Rail in Europe’s Economy

The rail sector significantly contributes to Europe’s economy, with an estimated €247 billion in GDP and over three million jobs supported by the industry. Rail is strategically positioned at the intersection of clean mobility, industrial competitiveness, territorial cohesion, and defense resilience. By modernizing the rail network and expanding cross-border services, rail transport is seen as essential for meeting Europe’s climate goals and improving overall connectivity.

Strengthening Rail’s Role in Sustainable Growth

The declaration underscores the importance of rail in achieving Europe’s climate and sustainability objectives. As a low-emission transport mode, rail is seen as a key enabler in reducing carbon footprints while boosting economic performance. Rail’s ability to transport both passengers and freight efficiently across vast distances positions it as a fundamental pillar of sustainable growth in Europe.

Collaboration with European Institutions

In order to bring this vision to life, CER and UNIFE stress the need for deeper collaboration with European institutions, such as the European Union Agency for Railways and Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking. These organizations play a critical role in ensuring the harmonization of standards and the implementation of innovative policies that will enable the transformation of the rail sector.

The Future of Cross-Border Rail Services

A major priority of the joint declaration is the seamless integration of Europe’s rail services across borders. This will require overcoming current technical and regulatory barriers and ensuring interoperability between different national rail systems. Through enhanced collaboration between rail operators, infrastructure companies, and government institutions, the aim is to create a cohesive and integrated European rail network that facilitates smoother and more efficient travel across the continent.

The Need for Political Support

Both CER and UNIFE highlight that the success of this long-term rail strategy depends heavily on continued political support at the EU level. The organizations call for strong backing from EU institutions to secure the necessary funding and implement policies that will accelerate the development of the rail network. This support will also be crucial in ensuring that the rail sector remains competitive in an increasingly complex transportation landscape.

The Rail Sector’s Impact on European Connectivity

With more than eight billion passenger journeys and a substantial share of freight traffic annually, the rail sector plays an essential role in connecting European cities and regions. A modernized, efficient rail network will enhance mobility, reduce travel times, and improve the overall competitiveness of the European economy. Furthermore, the expansion of high-speed rail services will make cross-border travel faster and more accessible for citizens across Europe.

Guiding Travelers in the Evolving Rail System

For travelers, the European rail sector’s growth plan promises smoother and faster journeys across Europe. Passengers can expect improved train services with more frequent and punctual connections. Additionally, the expansion of high-speed rail networks will provide faster travel options between major cities, contributing to more convenient travel experiences. As integration across borders improves, travelers can look forward to seamless transitions between different national rail systems, making international travel more accessible and efficient.

Conclusion: A Coordinated Approach to Rail’s Future

The joint statement from CER and UNIFE innovatiely and holistically puts forawrd a renewed vision for the European rail system based on on the principles of modern, efficient, sustainable, and encompassing all of Europe’s economy and ecology goals. Political commitment and partnership with the European institutions is of the essence to guarantee that the rail system is the backbone of the European transport network.

The strategy illustrates the commitment to a more integrated and sustainable system with higher capacity for rail throughout Europe. With the support of the partnership, the rail industry is ready to provide the people of Europe with more security and efficiency.