A Round Table for Greater Safety
The safety of public transport is an issue that affects us all. Train staff are particularly often exposed to violence and aggression, as SPÖ transport spokespeople Wolfgang Moitzi and Daniel Schmid emphasize. On 13 February 2026, they welcomed ÖBB's convening of a round table to discuss this pressing issue at the highest level.
Why is protecting train staff so important?
Train attendants are the backbone of public transport. They ensure every day that passengers travel safely from A to B. But their work is not only stressful; it is also dangerous. According to a 2025 study by the Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB), 60% of the train attendants surveyed said they had at some point been victims of violence.
The role of the SPÖ
The Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPÖ) has always stood up for workers' rights. Moitzi and Schmid are now calling for concrete measures to improve safety on trains. 'No one should have to be afraid to go to work,' Schmid said. This demand is not only a call to improve working conditions but also an appeal to the state's responsibility.
Historical background of the safety debate
The debate about safety in public transport is not new. As early as the 1990s there were initial initiatives to better protect train staff. At that time, video surveillance was introduced on trains, which, however, only partly helped to deter violence.
Comparison with other federal states
In Germany, a similar round table was convened in 2024, which led to a significant increase in safety in rail transport. With the introduction of security personnel on trains, the number of reported incidents of violence fell by 30% within one year.
What does this mean for citizens?
For citizens, greater safety in rail transport means not only a better feeling when travelling, but also an increase in the attractiveness of public transport. When staff feel safer, they can better attend to the needs of passengers.
Expert opinions on the security situation
Dr. Johannes Gruber, an expert in transport safety, explains: "Security in public transport is essential for a functioning transport system. If staff cannot work safely, the entire system suffers."
Numbers and statistics
According to a survey by the Österreichische Bundesbahnen (ÖBB), incidents of violence in rail transport have increased by 15% since 2020. Night trains and heavily frequented commuter routes are particularly affected.
Political contexts and dependencies
The debate about safety in public transport is closely linked to the broader security discussion in Austria. The government is called upon to improve safety not only in rail transport, but in public spaces in general.
A glimpse into the future
The round table could be the beginning of a new era of safety in public transport. The SPÖ has promised to closely monitor the results and to push for rapid implementation. If successful, Austria could become a model for other countries.
Conclusion
The convening of the round table by the ÖBB is an important step in the right direction. The SPÖ's demands for more security for train staff are not only necessary but overdue. It is to be hoped that the discussions will produce concrete measures that sustainably improve safety in rail transport.
