photo: Maciek Lulko / Flickr/Polish first High Speed Train Pendolino at Wroclaw Main Railway Station
Poland’s EU Presidency is setting the stage for sweeping changes in rail infrastructure and industrial competitiveness. From high-speed connections to cutting-edge digital systems, the nation is leading Europe's path to transformation.
As Poland assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, it brings a bold agenda aimed at boosting European competitiveness, modernizing rail networks, and strengthening security. These priorities position Poland as a critical decision-maker and innovator in shaping the EU's future. UNIFE Director General Enno Wiebe commended Poland's dual focus, stating, "Europe needs to solve big challenges, in particular on the competitiveness of its industry. We are confident the Polish Presidency is ready to guide and present solutions."
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Poland's Supporting SMEs and Reducing Administrative Burdens
According to UNIFE's press release, one of Poland's key goals is to reduce administrative burdens for companies, particularly SMEs, which form the backbone of European industry. SMEs in the rail sector have long pointed out the challenges of navigating complex and ever-changing regulatory landscapes.
Poland’s Presidency programme promises to simplify regulations and enhance processes around Regulatory Impact Assessments. Wiebe noted, "We see an agenda with great potential to drive growth and European prosperity, by addressing reporting burdens and building a legislative framework that supports SMEs and entrepreneurs." These initiatives aim to unlock innovation and ensure fair competition for European businesses in global markets.
High-Speed Rail: Connecting Europe’s Capitals via Poland
Poland’s commitment to high-speed rail projects aligns with the EU Commission's broader vision to connect Europe’s capitals and major cities. This includes investments in the Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) project and critical infrastructure like the Warsaw-Łódź line and the Rail Baltica project. These efforts position Poland as a vital gateway to the Baltic region, enhancing both passenger mobility and regional security.
The modernization of Poland’s rail network coincides with projections from the World Rail Market Study, which estimates the Polish rolling stock market will more than double by the end of the decade, reaching an annual value of EUR 1.9 billion.
Strengthening European Security Through Rail
The Presidency emphasizes the strategic importance of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) in boosting security. Upgrades to infrastructure and the deployment of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) are essential for moving military and civilian resources across Europe efficiently. However, the delayed roll-out of ERTMS and gauge incompatibilities between EU countries and neighbors like Ukraine and Moldova pose significant challenges.
ERTMS is a game-changer for rail logistics, enabling faster, safer, and more reliable movement of passengers, freight, and military assets. Wiebe commented, "TEN-T and all of its central components – such as infrastructure upgrades, ERTMS, and improving key corridors – can and should futureproof the security of the European Union."
Funding the Future of Mobility
The European Commission has supported 95 military mobility projects under the Connecting Europe Fund, but its EUR 1.74 billion budget has already been exhausted. Without additional resources, many crucial rail and security-related projects face delays or cancellations.
UNIFE advocates reinvesting in the fund to ensure dual civilian and military use of rail infrastructure. According to them, such investments could drive competitiveness and digitalization while ensuring long-term security and sustainability. Wiebe noted, "Long-term EU funding and financing should be ensured to futureproof rail services and digital infrastructure."
Poland’s Presidency: A Path to Prosperity
Poland’s leadership at the helm of the EU comes at a time of economic and geopolitical challenges. By focusing on competitiveness, sustainability, and innovation, the Presidency has the potential to set a transformative agenda for Europe. As Wiebe concluded, "This is a great opportunity to get the ball rolling on vital economic reforms."
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Source: UNIFE; RAILTARGET