Over the last 25 years, the Commission has been proactive in proposing changes to Europe's rail transport market to strengthen rail vis-à-vis other transport modes. Efforts have targeted three areas crucial for a strong and competitive rail industry:
- opening the rail transport market to competition;
- improving interoperability and safety;
- developing rail infrastructure.
Creating a Single European Railway Area
Connecting Europe by rail
Opening national markets for more competitive and efficient rail
Ensuring safe travel across borders
The European Rail Traffic Management System
Reducing noise emissions
Driving innovation in the rail sector
Cooperating with international partners
In November 2025, the European Commission unveiled a comprehensive plan to accelerate the development of high-speed rail across the EU.
The aim? Better connecting Europe by train and shortening travel times, all while bolstering the EU's global competitiveness and making travelling in the EU more climate-friendly.
News
The European Commission welcomes the political agreement reached yesterday on the regulation on the use of railway infrastructure capacity.
The European Commission presented today a new fact-finding study assessing the current state of the European hyperloop sector and exploring possible avenues for EU support.
The Commission adopted the Staff Working Document on the evaluation of the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA).
In 2021, all eyes were on rail and its role in building a sustainable and smart future for EU transport. Find out all about the initiative here.