Tackling Europe’s bus driver shortage

Core Insights - The bus driver shortage in Europe is a significant challenge that requires a comprehensive approach, focusing on redesigning the role and improving working conditions to attract underrepresented groups, particularly women and younger drivers [1][17] Group 1: Current Situation - The EU is currently facing a shortage of approximately 105,000 professional drivers, which constitutes about 10% of the total workforce, with projections indicating this could rise to 275,000 unfilled positions by 2028 if not addressed [4] - The situation is stagnating, with persistent recruitment and retention challenges primarily due to unappealing working conditions, such as disruptive shift patterns and limited access to facilities [2][3] Group 2: Importance of Buses in Sustainability - Buses and coaches are crucial to Europe's sustainability agenda, aiding in emission reduction and promoting shared mobility solutions; however, the driver shortage threatens these policy goals and disrupts public transport services [3] Group 3: Proposed Solutions - Suggested measures to attract more female drivers include targeted marketing and recruitment campaigns, improved working conditions, and the establishment of quotas or representation targets [6][12] - Recruitment strategies should actively challenge gender stereotypes and create supportive environments, such as women-only recruitment days [7][8] Group 4: Working Conditions - Poor working conditions disproportionately deter women from entering and remaining in driving roles, necessitating investments in infrastructure and operations to improve facilities and support [9][10] - Enhancements such as accessible toilet facilities, better communication among colleagues, and flexible scheduling are essential for retention and making the profession more attractive [10][11] Group 5: Challenges to Implementation - Addressing gender stereotypes and improving working conditions are long-term challenges that require sustained efforts beyond short-term initiatives [14][15] - The design of quotas and targets must be carefully considered to ensure they directly address driver shortages and facilitate meaningful progress [16]