CER and UNIFE are committed to delivering on key European objectives
Europe’s railways and rail supply industry, CER and UNIFE, have reaffirmed their strong commitment to the future development of the European railway system. The European Rail Sector Joint Deceleration was signed by CER and UNIFE on February 2, 2026, in Brussels, setting the joint priorities and direction that the sector believes the railway of the future must evolve towards
CER and UNIFE are the actors responsible for operating, maintaining, and supplying Europe’s rail system, and they assume responsibility for its ongoing transformation. Their joint vision includes reinforcing safety levels, increasing capacity, enabling seamless cross-border services, reducing system costs, and investing in research and innovation.
The European railway system requires investment in infrastructure, research, and development to address urgent modernisation needs and rising competitive pressures. With EU funding and political support, CER and UNIFE are committed to delivering on key European objectives, including the implementation of a European high-speed rail network and military mobility, as well as the continent-wide deployment of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS).
The EU rail ecosystem contributes 247 billion euros of GDP to the EU economy and supports over three million jobs. Railways stand at the crossroads of clean mobility, industrial competitiveness, territorial cohesion, and efficient military mobility, as well as being essential assets for achieving these goals.
CER and UNIFE have stated they are prepared to play their part in modernising the railway system and the critical role it plays in European competitiveness and resilience. CER and UNIFE intend to embark on this path together with their partners, in particular the European institutions, including the European Union Agency for Railways and Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking, with the firm awareness that progress is achievable by moving forward together.
Enno Wiebe, UNIFE director general, said, “Rail is the only mode of transport that can achieve all the goals Europe has set for itself – a reduction in emissions, better continental defence, greater innovation and boosting growth. By supporting rail, the sector and policymakers can help ensure a stronger Europe. We must own the direction we travel in, which is why the European Rail Supply Industry and operators have joined forces on this document. We understand the needs of the sector, and so it is on us to offer up our own vision.”
Alberto Mazzola, CER director general, said, “Europe’s railways and rail supply industry are united behind a clear vision for the future of our system. With the right political backing and adequate EU funding, we stand ready to deliver a safer, more efficient and more competitive railway for all Europeans, for the passengers who rely on us year-round for 8 billion trips, and for the rail freight customers who depend on reliable, high‑quality services to keep Europe’s economy moving. The challenges ahead are significant, but so is our determination. By working closely with our partners in the EU institutions, we can ensure that rail continues to strengthen Europe’s connectivity, resilience and industrial leadership.”
To see CER and UNIFE’s joint statement, visit: UNIFE-CER-Joint-Declaration-2026.pdf
