Back in 1988, 14 railway companies felt the need to establish a stronger link with the European institutions in the light of increasingly significant political developments in transport. As a result, CER was founded as an independent group of the International Union of Railways (UIC) with its own offices in Brussels.

CER, representing the vast majority of EU rail business, has always been at the forefront in helping shape rail regulation. CER became an independent body in 1996, and the membership grew quickly attracting railway undertakings, their national associations, infrastructure companies and vehicle leasing companies.

On behalf of its members, CER will continue building the path towards an even more competitive, safe and sustainable railway system in Europe.