New entry points for Fare-Free

Abstract

This essay discusses five currently ongoing struggles that open new windows of opportunity for the necessary mobility turnaround in our cities. The first is the currently pending regulation of platform work in the EU, which will also affect the mobility provider UBER. This will determine whether UBER will remain a dangerous public transport competitor or not. Secondly, the current crisis of rising costs of living is intensifying the discussion about public transport for fare-free or greatly reduced prices. Measures that some EU member states have taken are discussed. The social justice dimension is also reflected in the context of area justice and urban heat waves. Thirdly, the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the financing of public transport to such an extent that it opens a window of opportunity to gain new allies for fare-free. Fourthly, the discussion about the war in Ukraine also opens up the possibility of taking a new look at public transport, as it can contribute significantly to energy savings. Last but not least, the current discussion on industrial policy as a reply to the American Inflation Reduction Act is an opportunity to strengthen public transport and fare-free public transport discourse.