In the margins of the ITF 2024 Summit in Leipzig, the International Road Federation (IRF) and the International Transport Forum (ITF) have decided to frame their long-standing collaboration in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The aim is to amplify their impact in addressing the complex challenges the road transport sector is facing. 

Established in 1948, the IRF is a global not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving road networks through knowledge and expertise-sharing, advocacy and partnerships. With a rich legacy of collaboration, IRF has been a driving force in advancing road infrastructure worldwide.  

Meanwhile, nestled within the OECD framework, the ITF serves as a prominent think tank for transport policy. Drawing upon its extensive research and expertise, ITF promotes strategies for safer, more efficient, and more sustainable transportation globally. 

With the aim to amplify their impact in addressing the complex challenges facing the road transport sector, the IRF and ITF have decided to frame their longstanding and fruitful cooperation into an MoU. By combining IRF’s deep understanding of road infrastructure with ITF’s policy expertise, the partnership seeks to pioneer innovative solutions in areas such as road safety, decarbonisation, digitalisation, and financing mechanisms tailored to the sector’s needs. 

Their joint collaboration encompasses a diverse array of initiatives such as the delivery of capacity-building activities, organisation of events and workshops, project development, and comprehensive data analysis. 

Susanna Zammataro, Director General of the IRF, emphasised the significance of partnerships, stating

“At the IRF, we firmly believe in the power of collaborations to deliver meaningful change. With IRF and ITF joining forces, we are uniquely positioned to pioneer innovative initiatives that address the evolving challenges and opportunities in the global mobility landscape.” 

Young Tae Kim, ITF’s Secretary General, echoed this sentiment, saying,

“The collaboration between ITF and IRF holds great promise for driving positive change in the transport sector. Together, we can address pressing challenges, foster innovation, and create a more sustainable and inclusive transportation system by combining our expertise and resources.”