Across the world, road networks are under increasing tension with the rising economic activity, rapid urbanisation, and a steady rebound in car ownership. Global passenger car sales not only recovered after the pandemic, but surpassed previous records, with over 75 million vehicles sold in 2023 and an estimated 77 million in 2024. 

This challenge framed discussions at the International Symposium “Navigating the Future of Traffic Management” in Athens, Greece (29 June – 3 July) where the International Road Federation (IRF) led the closing plenary session, “Global Partnerships to Reach the Destination Needed Collaboration and Targets.” Moderated by IRF Acting Director General Gonzalo Alcaraz, the session featured IRF President Dimitris Mandalozis alongside global experts, collectively issuing a powerful call for integrated approaches and cooperation. 

A core message resonated: managing traffic effectively demands breaking down traditional silos. “Traffic is no longer managed in isolation,” stressed IRF President Dimitris Mandalozis, drawing on his role as COO of Greece’s Aegean Motorways. “It requires integration, not just in data or technology, but in planning, governance, and day-to-day operations.” This imperative for multi-agency control centres and unified corridor planning was reinforced by Jianming Ma (Texas DOT, AASHTO).  

While technology offers significant potential, speakers emphasised practical deployment challenges. Mandalozis pointed to Co-operative, Connected & Automated Mobility (CCAM) as transformative, explaining how precision algorithms in automated vehicles can smooth traffic flow.  

The panel agreed that scaling up efforts requires meaningful collaboration, supported by clear incentives. Angelos Amditis suggested rewards such as international recognition and funding schemes that promote openness. Mandalozis outlined key conditions for success: formal agreements between agencies, joint funding mechanisms, aligned regulations, strong data-sharing systems, and investment in cross-border training. 

He positioned the IRF as central to this mission: “This is precisely the role that the International Road Federation seeks to play. We continue to serve as a bridge… IRF stands ready to convene partners… to co-develop roadmaps and pilot initiatives.” 

Connecting physical infrastructure with digital control systems requires new operational approaches and further research. Mandalozis stressed that the focus should be on practical integration, such as prioritising public transportation. 

As Mr. Alcaraz said “Mounting congestion is not just a matter of delays and lost economic productivity. In most cities, automobile traffic is now the leading contributor to both air and noise pollution. The consequences are real and measurable, from respiratory illness and cardiovascular risk to reduced quality of life, especially for vulnerable populations.”  

To close the session, Mandalozis aptly summarised, “The future of traffic management depends not only on what we build, but on how we work together to build it,” underscoring the collective resolve for integrated global action. 

With that, the IRF concluded a successful week at the International Symposium “Navigating the Future of Traffic Management”. We had a strong presence with a dedicated stand, hosted our Annual General Assembly where key leadership decisions were made, and held the IRF 2025 Awards Ceremony, recognising 14 innovative projects in the sector.