HIGH-SPEED RAIL, the right speed for our planet - Key Messages (11th UIC HS Congress)

High-speed trains are developing at a rapid pace. The pandemic did not stop the expansion of the high-speed rail network, as the length of operational lines increased by more than 40% between 2020 and 2022, going from 44,000 km to around 59,000 km. Additionally, the number of countries using high-speed trains is on the rise with the development of further projects, which is demonstrated by construction work across the world, in Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America, and in the Middle East.

The challenges we face today are global, requiring new sustainable transport systems and a decarbonisation of the economy at a local, national, and international level. New economic situations and political challenges call for new transport operations and solutions to meet mass transport needs, while also combating climate change. It is possible to face this in both a positive and effective way.

More notice needs to be taken of the railways, and the 11th UIC High-Speed Congress was one of the ways that UIC was able to realise its purpose: to foster cooperation among the world’s railways. The mobility of 2030 is taking shape today and we can find the best solutions for this, by working together and in solidarity. This requires a coordinated effort by all stakeholders in the transport chain, with the global railway community, united within UIC and driven by the values of unity, solidarity, and universality, working towards the same common goals.