Diversity and Inclusion in Transportation: A Broader Perspective

Pride Month was officially celebrated in June, but LGBTQ+ Pride events continue across Europe throughout the summer. In this spirit, AET reaffirms its commitment to diversity and inclusion in transportation — not only in celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, but as part of a broader vision for diversity, equity, and access for all. At a time when diversity and inclusion initiatives are being challenged and removed in some countries, AET will continue to provide a space where these initiatives are encouraged and celebrated for their contributions to our industry.

This commitment is reflected in AET’s Transport and Mobility Forum (TMF) events and the European Transport Conference (ETC). TMF webinars have highlighted the need for inclusive mobility, the accessibility needs of LGBTQ+ people, and the challenges women face as both transport professionals and users. Past ETC sessions have examined inclusive mobilities, social inclusion, justice and poverty, impacts on health and equity, and the need to integrate the diverse characteristics of transport users into transport plans.

These papers and presentations highlight AET’s strategic objective: to foster transport systems that serve everyone. Our commitment to inclusion extends beyond Pride, shaping every aspect of our research, events, and networks. We strive to ensure fairness and visibility for all, in line with AET’s Diversity & Inclusion statement:

“We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals, irrespective of their age, origin, background, culture, beliefs, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, neurotype and physical abilities.”

Our efforts focus on building respectful communication, supporting early-career professionals, empowering women through our Women in Transport network, and ensuring balanced representation and accessibility at all our events.

This year’s ETC in Antwerp will continue to address the need for inclusion in transport. This year’s papers include inclusive topics such as transport poverty, social inclusion, addressing mobility impairments, and gender inequities in transport. AET also wants to ensure the conference is inclusive to all, and will provide a pre-conference session to support first-time ETC attendees and anyone who might feel less comfortable at the conference.

AET is also committed to diversity within the Association - aiming to increase the diversity of its membership base and across the volunteer opportunities across the organisation. AET encourages and welcomes women and members from underrepresented groups and countries to participate in programming committees, become an Ambassador, or run for Council elections.

For us, inclusion is an umbrella - under which everyone deserves fair access, visibility, and participation. We are proud of our progress and remain open to new ideas and contributions to strengthen diversity in transport.