Railway transport still needs to make political, regulatory and cultural progress, although 25 years of liberalisation have gone a long way towards opening up markets and achieving technical harmonisation. This is the main message of an opinion on a Single European Railway area adopted at the EESC March plenary.

An unbiased analysis of the Single European Railway Area and its achievements is needed and the European Year of Rail 2021 could provide an excellent opportunity to take stock of developments and set new objectives for the future, stresses the EESC.

Speaking at the plenary debate, the opinion rapporteur Stefan Back said: "Rail is in need of a change of culture and an approach that is much more centred on customers' needs, whether it be passenger or freight transport. The European Year of Rail 2021 should be used as an opportunity to promote this behavioural change and develop smoother cooperation between operators and customers and to make the most of digitalisation."

The COVID-19 pandemic has held up or stalled projects, which now must catch up. State aid remains crucial to ensure essential services beyond the crisis and public service contracts can guarantee accessible, affordable and inclusive passenger services for all. In the EESC's view, this is one of the most effective and efficient measures to promote railway passenger transport. (mp)