The European Union Agency for Railways

The European Union Agency for Railways aims to create a seamless European railway area, enhancing safety and interoperability across member states by implementing standard criteria and advancing the European train control and communication system (ERTMS).
It is tasked with promoting a proactive safety culture within the rail sector and supports the development of positive safety attitudes and practices, targeting both human and organizational factors.
With the enactment of the technical pillar of the Fourth Railway Package in 2016, the agency’s responsibilities expanded, now including issuing vehicle authorizations, safety certificates, and trackside approvals EU-wide.
The agency plays a crucial role in collecting data and evidence for decision-making, monitoring rail system needs, supporting research and innovation, and fostering partnerships with related organisations.
It focuses on strengthening international rail cooperation, for instance, through the EU-MIDRAIL and IPA projects, to enhance the railway system’s efficiency and societal benefits.