Joint Research Centre launches the Transport Poverty Hub to enhance regional connectivity across Europe

The Joint Research Centre (JRC) has launched the Transport Poverty Hub, an innovative online platform that provides high-resolution maps to identify both well-connected and underdeveloped transport networks. The tool offers valuable insights for policymakers, supporting more informed decisions on regional connectivity.

The Hub contributes to the European Commission's wider efforts to tackle transport poverty, particularly within the framework of the upcoming Social Climate Plans. The Commission recently adopted recommendations for Member States to submit national plans by June, setting out measures to support vulnerable groups affected by the new EU emissions trading system.

These measures - supported by the Social Climate Fund, which will provide at least €86.7 billion from 2026 - include social leasing of zero-emission vehicles, better transport services in low-income areas, and voucher programmes to improve access to mobility.

Recognising the essential role of transport in enabling social inclusion, the Hub provides spatial indicators to analyse the availability dimension of transport poverty. It assesses access to services and opportunities by walking, cycling, driving and public transport, helping policymakers plan for better accessibility across Europe.

Access the Transport Poverty Hub here.

Author: Dearbhla Mullin

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.