Railway representatives from across Europe gathered in Warsaw on 9 December for the 41st Regional Assembly Europe. Senior representatives from railway companies, partner organisations, and the UIC headquarters team came together to reflect on two years of impressive progress and to set the direction for the future. The meeting was chaired by Martin Frobisher, Network Rail, with warm opening remarks from UIC Director General François Davenne and UIC Director Europe Sandra Géhénot.

The Assembly marked the end of the mandate of Stefano Donnarumma,, CEO FS, and the beginning of another one. Delegates confirmed his re-election as Chair of the Region for 2026–2027, while Martin Frobisher, Network Rail’s Group Safety and Engineering Director, will continue as Vice-Chair. The renewed leadership is expected to provide stability at a time when Europe is pushing for major advances in sustainable mobility.

Over the past two years, the European Management Committee (EMC – the strategic body of the Region) has steered a series of game changers for the region’s rail system. While highly technical work continued behind the scenes, the broader outcome was clear: progress toward a railway sector that is more digitally equipped, more resilient, and aligned with Europe’s transport ambitions.

Much of this progress was underpinned by active cooperation. Throughout the year, UIC engaged with member companies and major European rail bodies in a series of structured exchanges. These discussions helped maintain alignment on technical, regulatory and strategic issues, while reinforcing the shared goal of strengthening Europe’s rail network as a whole.

From interoperability and safety to long-term research priorities, stakeholders signalled a willingness to continue closer cooperation.

Looking ahead, the EMC plans to build on this foundation during the 2026–2027 period, with an emphasis on integration, innovation and supporting Europe’s wider sustainability agenda. Collaboration across regions is expected to remain a central theme.