IRU in Europe

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Driving a safe, efficient and green future

IRU is the official social partner recognised by the European Commission to engage in negotiations on behalf of road transport employers.

We support our members by engaging in the legislative and awareness-building process, helping them to thrive and support economic and social prosperity – safely, efficiently and sustainably.

Safe

Safety is always our first priority. We look to improve working conditions, attract more people to our sector, and reinforce training and certification.

Road transport employs over five million workers across the EU. But the sector is facing a growing driver shortage. We advocate for better working conditions and training to ensure that road transport remains an attractive career option. Supporting recruitment and retention, especially by boosting diversity and inclusion, is a priority to sustain the industry's workforce.

Efficient

As the foundation of EU supply chains, commercial road transport underpins economic and social prosperity.

IRU advocates for the free movement of people and goods, greater digitalisation (including Mobility-as-a-Service – MaaS), and support to maintain supply chain continuity in times of crisis.

We call for targeted, as opposed to additional, regulation that supports road transport and without burdening operators. By reducing bureaucratic barriers and fostering cross-border cooperation, we help EU road transport companies remain competitive in a global market.

Green

IRU is committed to helping the industry achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 while continuing to meet the passenger and goods transport needs of communities and businesses.

We promote the shift from private to collective mobility to reduce CO₂ emissions and call for the financial support and promotion of bus, coach and taxi services as the cleanest and most efficient form of transport.

The shift to carbon-neutral fuels and vehicles, including electric and hybrid, are underway, but more infrastructure support is needed. Harmonised rules for urban vehicle access and grid improvements are also key to this transition.

Building the future

IRU and its members work on EU-funded projects to make innovation an on-the-road reality.

The innovative projects – focusing, in particular, on decarbonisation, digitalisation and artificial intelligence – support the future of transport by testing and developing new technologies and face the challenges of tomorrow.