TIRANA – The 6th Social Forum of the Transport Community took place on 10 April and brought together more than 50 regional and EU stakeholders to advance the transposition and implementation of EU acquis on passenger rights. The central theme of the 6th Social Forum was “Strengthening Passenger Rights in the Western Balkans.” Discussions were built on the findings of the 2024 Study on Strengthening the Regulatory Framework for Passenger Rights in the Western Balkans, which identified critical gaps in legislation, enforcement, and awareness. These included limited transposition of EU legislation, under-resourced enforcement bodies, and inconsistent complaint-handling procedures across the region. The study also served as a key evidence base to shape future policy and programming under the Transport Community framework.
Forum Structure
- Plenary Session: “Stocktaking of the Study on Passenger Rights and the Way Forward”
The session presented the key findings and recommendations of the 2024 Study, highlighting institutional gaps and the need for harmonised complaint-handling systems, stronger National Enforcement Bodies (NEBs), and greater awareness. It also showcased good practices and included interventions from EU institutions, regional ministries, civil society, and technical experts. - Workshop: “Next-Generation Action Plan on Social Issues and Passenger Rights”
This session focused on drafting the future 2026–2028 Action Plan, which will serve as a strategic roadmap to guide Western Balkan partners in strengthening enforcement, enhancing passenger protections, and aligning further with the EU acquis. Participants identified concrete actions including digitalisation of enforcement tools, improving accessibility standards, and better coordination among enforcement authorities. The forum also stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement in the implementation phase.
Key Conclusions
- Support for National Enforcement Bodies (NEBs): The forum welcomed progress in establishing NEBs and underlined the importance of strengthening their capacity, independence, and visibility to ensure effective enforcement and complaint resolution.
- Improved Awareness and Inclusivity: Participants highlighted the importance of awareness-raising campaigns, staff training, and ensuring transport is accessible to persons with disabilities and reduced mobility, in line with EU accessibility legislation.
- Commitment to the Next-Generation Action Plan (2025–2027): The Forum confirmed the collective commitment of all stakeholders to develop and implement a new Action Plan that will address outstanding gaps, propose innovative solutions, and support stronger passenger protections across all transport modes in the Western Balkans.
To access the Forum’s conclusions, please click here.
