Europeans Demand Better Rail as Frustration with Ageing Networks Grows

New global survey reveals rail has become one of Europe's highest infrastructure priorities, with growing public support for investment in faster, more reliable and better-connected railway networks.

Rail infrastructure has emerged as one of the public's highest investment priorities across Europe as growing frustration with ageing networks, capacity constraints and unreliable services fuels demand for faster and more modern railways.

A new international survey published by the Global Infrastructure Investor Association (GIIA), in partnership with Ipsos, shows that rail is now regarded as one of the most important infrastructure investments governments can make, ranking behind only water supply and new housing globally.

The findings come as European governments continue pursuing ambitious plans to expand high-speed rail, improve cross-border connectivity and encourage a shift away from road and air travel in support of climate objectives.

Rail Rises Up the Political Agenda

The Global Infrastructure Index 2026 surveyed more than 21,500 adults across 29 countries, examining public attitudes towards infrastructure investment, funding and national priorities.

Across Europe, support for rail investment proved particularly strong.

In Hungary, 64% of respondents identified rail as a national investment priority, closely followed by Sweden (63%) and Spain (58%).

Rail also ranked among the highest priorities in several of Europe's largest economies, placing second in Germany, third in the United Kingdom and fourth in France.

Across all countries surveyed, around one in three respondents identified rail infrastructure as a national priority, although that fell to around one in four when people were asked about investment within their own local communities.

The findings suggest that while local infrastructure issues remain important, many people increasingly recognise the wider economic and environmental benefits of nationally connected rail networks.

Supporting Europe's High-Speed Rail Vision

The report arrives as Europe accelerates plans to expand its high-speed rail network through the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) programme.

The European Union estimates that completing the TEN-T core network by 2040 will require investment of around €345 billion, with approximately €140 billion already committed through funding mechanisms including the Connecting Europe Facility, InvestEU and financing from the European Investment Bank.

The survey suggests growing public backing for these long-term investments as demand increases for faster, more reliable and more sustainable transport.

Rolling Stock Attracting Investors

While the public naturally associates rail investment with tracks and stations, the report highlights that private sector investors are increasingly focusing on rolling stock.

Unlike fixed infrastructure such as railway lines, depots and substations, trains can be leased between operators, transferred to different routes and financed independently of individual infrastructure projects.

The GIIA believes removing barriers to private investment in rolling stock could accelerate railway modernisation while helping governments deliver improvements more quickly and efficiently.

The organisation has previously submitted recommendations to the European Commission aimed at encouraging greater private investment as part of the EU's High-Speed Rail Action Plan.

Industry Calls for Faster Action

Jon Phillips, Chief Executive of the Global Infrastructure Investor Association, said public expectations are changing as more people seek sustainable alternatives to road and air travel.

He said:

"As the European public change the way they commute and travel to be more sustainable, better rail service should focus on giving people faster, easier and more reliable journeys.

"The public themselves have sent a message that investment in rail should be prioritised, and Europe's high-speed rail ambitions can deliver many of these improvements – but only if investment keeps pace."

He added that investors remain keen to support both new railway infrastructure and modern rolling stock, provided governments create the policy certainty needed to unlock long-term investment.

Meeting Growing Demand

Alberto Mazzola, Executive Director of the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER), said public demand for rail travel continues to grow.

He noted that three in four Europeans would choose rail over other modes for long-distance journeys if high-speed services were available.

According to Mazzola, meeting that demand requires sustained investment not only in new routes but also in maintaining existing infrastructure, deploying digital signalling technologies and expanding capacity across the continent.

He argued that long-term policy certainty is essential if governments, investors and railway operators are to deliver the modern network passengers increasingly expect.

A Clear Public Message

The survey sends a clear signal to policymakers.

As Europe looks to decarbonise transport, strengthen regional economies and improve cross-border mobility, public support for rail investment has never been stronger.

For governments, the challenge is no longer convincing people that rail deserves investment.

It is ensuring that funding, policy and delivery keep pace with rising public expectations.

With passengers increasingly demanding faster, more reliable and better-connected services, investment in Europe's railways is no longer simply a transport issue—it has become a strategic economic priority capable of shaping the continent's future competitiveness, sustainability and prosperity.