Ambassadors for #DiversityInTransport gather to drive equity forward
The Ambassadors for #DiversityInTransport held their third Annual Conference on 4 June 2025, marking a milestone in the network’s growth and its ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across the European transport sector.
Since its inception in 2022, the ambassador network has expanded to nearly 100 members, and this year’s event reflected both the progress made and the pressing challenges ahead. Mona Björklund, Director for Policy Coordination at the European Commission’s DG MOVE, opened the conference by emphasising the value of shared experiences, collective learning, and translating vision into actionable outcomes.
A rich agenda of dialogue and action
The day’s agenda combined storytelling, interactive workshops, and breakout sessions. These discussions highlighted the need for a refreshed roadmap to guide the network’s future, including a new governance structure designed to increase member engagement and advocacy.
Participants acknowledged a shifting global landscape, where some organisations are stepping back from DEI commitments while others continue to embed inclusion at the core of their operations. Stories shared by ambassadors gave voice to the personal realities behind DEI work—ranging from navigating queer identity in a male-dominated field to advocating for greater recognition of invisible disabilities.
Identifying priorities and amplifying impact
Breakout discussions explored strategies to overcome systemic barriers, from cultural resistance to ongoing labour shortages in the transport sector. At the same time, ambassadors identified key opportunities: inclusive hiring practices, leveraging digital accessibility, and recognising the potential of immigration to strengthen the workforce.
Subgroup presentations provided insight into ongoing initiatives within the network, advocating for better representation and cross-sector collaboration.
Moreover, structured action plans were proposed for each subgroup to better coordinate outreach and implementation.
Taking it forward
The conference concluded with a call for stronger collaboration, with concrete next steps as thematic workshops, blog publications, and expanded engagement strategies to build bridges across communities and organisations.
As the network moves into its third year, the energy and commitment displayed at this year’s conference offer a promising path forward—one where inclusion is not just discussed, but actively implemented across Europe’s transport systems.
