European Parliament backs high-speed rail expansion

The European Parliament has approved a report that aims to speed up the development of high-speed rail across the European Union. The report, passed with 558 votes in favor, 23 against, and 73 abstentions, proposes a dedicated budget and more affordable tickets to connect major cities in all regions.

Report targets regional connectivity

The report highlights the need to connect not only capitals but also regional metropolises to the high-speed rail network. It argues that rail should serve all regions of the EU, not just major cities, and calls for completing the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), identifying missing links, and improving transboundary connections.

Affordable tickets and funding requested

The document stresses the importance of affordable train tickets and more transparent pricing. It urges the use of European funds, both current and future, to support rail development. The report also asks the EU’s next long-term budget, set for 2028-2034, to include specific funding for high-speed rail projects.

Green bonds and environmental goals

Vicent Marzà Ibáñez, the Spanish rapporteur, supports the use of "rail green bonds" to finance rail projects. He believes shifting from air travel to rail would reduce fossil fuel dependence, create jobs, and boost European strategic autonomy. The report also calls for accessible pricing and tailored subscriptions for passengers.

Balancing high-speed and regional rail

While the report praises efforts to improve passenger rights and ticket interoperability, it warns against prioritizing high-speed rail at the expense of regional and suburban trains. This concern was recently highlighted by an incident where 300 passengers were evacuated from a regional train due to an electrical failure.

Non-binding recommendations ahead

The report’s recommendations are not legally binding, and their impact will depend largely on negotiations over the EU’s 2028-2034 budget. The focus will be on securing sufficient funding and ensuring that rail development benefits all regions of the Union.