The International Association of Public Transport (UITP)
2025/05/27

 

Introduction

The International Association of Public Transport (UITP) is a global network dedicated to promoting sustainable urban mobility. Established in 1885, UITP brings together all public transport stakeholders and sustainable mobility modes under one roof.

With over 135 years of history, UITP stands as the only international platform representing the full ecosystem of public transport. Across the globe, public transport connects people to education, employment, cultural activities, and social services. By supporting the sector as a whole, UITP ensures that public transport and its workforce continue to bring cities to life.

UITP works to improve quality of life and economic prosperity by advancing sustainable urban transportation worldwide. Its core activities include:

  • Publishing authoritative reports and statistical insights
  • Organizing global and regional events
  • Leading innovation and knowledge-based projects
  • Delivering comprehensive training programs

Moreover, UITP engages with key decision-makers and international bodies to promote sustainable mobility solutions and inspire excellence through cutting-edge knowledge, expertise sharing, and global partnerships.

UITP has approximately 1,900 members and 13 offices around the world. While the headquarters remains in Brussels, Belgium, regional and liaison offices have been established across continents to maintain a strong local presence and deliver targeted support.

Mission, vision and goals

Vision:
To move people towards a sustainable and inclusive world.

Mission:
To advance public transport through advocacy, knowledge-sharing, and global collaboration.

Goals and Values:

UITP is committed to making a meaningful difference by driving innovation in mobility and promoting public transport as a cornerstone of sustainable, healthy, safe, and inclusive societies. By uniting actors from the public transport sector and beyond, UITP fosters comprehensive knowledge exchange and facilitates the dissemination of best practices.

Core values include:

  • Integrity and Respect: Commitment to fairness, equity, and valuing diversity across all operations.
  • Leadership and Ambition: Aspiring to be the global voice of public transport and addressing the sector’s most pressing challenges with purpose and resolve.
  • Collaboration and Openness: Working inclusively and leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve shared success.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: Embedding inclusive values in its institutional DNA, UITP actively celebrates diversity and promotes a culture of belonging.

UITP believes that inclusive practices unlock potential for individuals, organizations, and communities. This belief is reflected in its globally diverse staff and its ongoing commitment to equity and representation.

 

Structure

UITP is governed by a structured set of bodies that ensure democratic, transparent, and efficient management of the organization:

  • General Assembly:

Comprising all members, the General Assembly meets at least once annually and holds ultimate authority as per UITP's bylaws.

  • Executive Board:

Implements decisions made by the General Assembly and manages administrative and financial matters. Includes the President, Division Chairs, and regional representatives.

  • President and Deputy President:

The President, elected by the General Assembly from the Policy Board, serves a two-year term and chairs both the Executive and Policy Boards. The Deputy President, also elected for a two-year term, supports the President as needed.

    • Current President: Renée Amilcar, General Manager, OC TRANSPO (Ottawa, Canada)
    • Current Deputy President: Brieuc de Meeûs, CEO, STIB (Brussels, Belgium)
  • Policy Board:

Composed of Executive Board members, Division and Committee Chairs, and regional/national representatives. It holds exclusive authority in determining UITP's policy positions and Integrated Global Work Plan.

  • PresCom (Presidents' Committee):

Comprising Committee Chairs, PresCom coordinates UITP’s working bodies and prepares recommendations for the Policy Board. It also monitors the Integrated Global Work Plan.

  • Committees and Divisions:

UITP has thematic and regional Committees as well as Divisions based on activity and geography. Committees serve as working bodies that guide strategic initiatives and develop projects.

    • Regions: Africa, Asia-Pacific, Eurasia, Europe, Latin America, MENA, North America, Australia/New Zealand
    • Stakeholder Focus: Bus, Metro, Light Rail, Organising Authorities, etc.
    • Thematic Areas: Cybersecurity, Security, Sustainability, Urban Life, Business & HR, Design & Culture, Marketing, etc.
  • Secretary General:

Appointed by the Executive Board, the Secretary General leads the General Secretariat and oversees daily operations, membership development, and coordination of UITP's structural bodies.

    • Current Secretary General: Mohamed Mezghani (acting on behalf of Mohamed Mezghani SARL)

Secretariat

The Secretary-General of the Union is appointed by the Executive Board and is responsible for the day-to-day management of UITP. The Secretary-General leads the central secretariat and oversees the executive affairs, membership processes, and communications of the Union.

UITP Headquarters: Rue Sainte-Marie, 6 1080, Brussels, Belgium

Email: info@uitp.org
Telephone: +32-2 673 61 00

https://www.uitp.org/

The International Association of Public Transport (UITP)