Institutional Relations

Social problems are not the responsibility of railroad networks. Each country, depending on the laws in effect, must determine which entities are prepared to deal with social emergencies and, specifically, issues regarding the homeless or individuals in trouble. A public service company, however, does have clear social responsibilities. Beginning with the Green Book of the European Commission to Promote a European Framework for Companies' Social Responsibility, railroad companies are dealing with the designated problems with the proper institutions.

In effect, the concept of the station as a piazza that opens on the city - which has now taken hold throughout Europe - calls for an intensive and ongoing dialogue between railroad companies and government at all levels. Furthermore, it is increasingly clear that social problems are global and must be addressed on an international level. This is why the network looks to EU agencies as its first partner, seeking to collaborate and work together. Some partners, stressing the network's potential, have introduced an experimental European social project to test the effectiveness of social activities coordination mechanisms in stations with regard to the homeless.

The initiative summarizes the network's orientation toward the various entities addressing social problems associated with the world of railroads: city officials, law enforcement, private companies and volunteers.  It is necessary to establish a common language among these agencies and find more opportunities to meet and work together. This synergy will yield the best possible context in which to develop solidarity between the business community and society.