Transport Poverty in Europe: A Systematic Literature Review

Transport systems are a very powerful tool for overcoming deprivation, reducing inequalities, and ensuring access to essential services. However, studies have observed that certain population groups are particularly vulnerable to adverse transport conditions, restricting them to a certain area and therefore hindering their opportunities for development and pushing them to poverty and social exclusion. Transport poverty means the lack of available, affordable, and accessible transport choices, hindering essential activities and participation in society. This report aims to improve the understanding of transport poverty in the European Union and to analyze its many components through a systematic literature review, taking into account societal changes such as those triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, and future challenges regarding new services, digitalization, climate change, and the transition towards climate neutrality. It highlights the importance of an EU-wide definition and measurement for transport poverty, prioritizing sustainable modes like active travel and public transport to prevent poverty and social exclusion.

Context and quantification

About the policy

Impacts

Metadata