Annual Report 2017

In 2017, CER devoted a great deal of effort to the implementation of the Fourth Railway Package’s Safety and Interoperability Directives. The harmonisation of certification and authorisation processes under the control of the EU Agency for Railways represents a major leap forward in shaping a real Single European Railway Area, and fostering better services for passengers and goods.

In May 2017, the European Commission published the legislative package Europe on the Move, including the revision of the Eurovignette Directive. It will be another chance to redress the current shortcomings in intermodal competition from the aspect of infrastructure charging and internalisation of external costs while contributing to safer European roads.

CER has also been following the Brexit negotiations, acting as an essential interlocutor for the EU institutions by highlighting potential challenges and their corresponding solutions. 

The debate on the shape and size of the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) is heating up, and CER’s key message is that rail infrastructure but also rolling stock and system technology need sufficient resources in the future MFF and a strong grant-based policy such as the Connecting Europe Facility.

Last but not least, CER continues to hold its invaluable discussions with representatives of customers’ associations. The recent recast of Regulation 1371/2007 on rail passenger rights as well as other important files such as the European Accessibility Act (EAA) have been at the centre of the debate. 

It is with these priorities in mind that we will continue representing the European rail sector at EU level. Our energy to shape these pivotal aspects of transport policy will sustain the momentum needed to achieve progress on all fronts.

We hope you will enjoy reading our Annual Report, and we look forward to continuing working together to make a brighter future for the European rail sector.