A review of the future transport labour market: An EU approach

Mobility and transportation are a fundamental cornerstone of societies. They cannot be performed without a specific and varied workforce that keep all modes functioning. However, the transport sector currently faces many challenges including volatile high energy prices, labour and skills shortages, harsh working conditions, an ageing work force, and many labour relations’ issues. There are also deep and widespread market changes to confront in relation to automation and digitalisation, the move towards greener, cleaner technologies and sustainability. The risk of unemployment for certain jobs is evident. Transport workers and transport undertakings are thus confronted with the very challenging landscape to decarbonise the sector but also to address social sustainability and remain competitive in a fast-changing environment. This study makes use of a systematic review to analyse the main challenges that the land transport sector faces. This paper informs policy makers and relevant stakeholders on the current trends; highlights challenges and opportunities for transport workers and provides recommendations to help achieve that will result in a digital and fair, ethical, just, and green transition not only for the transport sector but also for the society as a whole.