Women driving change

Women continue to be underrepresented in the commercial road transport sector.

Only 11.8% of employees in ground transport (road, rail, and pipeline) were women in 2019. This is in stark contrast with maritime (22.6%) and air transport (42.9%). The share of female truck drivers is even worse, with women making up less than 6% of truck drivers in most regions.

The road transport sector is currently facing critical labour shortages, especially for drivers and other essential roles. Attracting and retaining more women is not just a matter of equality; it’s a strategic need to foster growth, innovation and long-term sustainability.

Together with its members, IRU has been working extensively on this challenge, conducting research, launching programmes and advocating for action. However, change has been slow. What can be done to accelerate change?

IRU addressed this crucial question in the Women Driving Change Ideas Lab, which brought together a group of female New Industry Shapers from around the world.

Women Driving Change Ideas Lab

Building on the success of the New Industry Shapers project, the Women Driving Change Ideas Lab focused on key issues affecting the low representation of women in road transport.

Over the course of three virtual dialogues, a group of female New Industry Shapers shared their thoughts on barriers to entry, attraction and retention strategies, and solutions to boost participation rates.

The dialogues not only highlighted the importance of gender diversity, but they also established a global community of women in road transport.

Read their stories, insights and solutions to accelerate change in the Women Driving Change report.

Our commitment

As a direct outcome of the Women Driving Change Ideas lab, IRU is dedicated to continue advancing the integration of women into road transport.

This initiative will serve as a permanent space where stakeholders can share best practices and raise awareness. Together, we can create a more inclusive, innovative and sustainable road transport sector.

Join us in driving change and shaping the future of road transport. Explore the resources, stories and initiatives dedicated to empowering women in this vital sector.