Abstract

This article tries shows the methodology used in the framework of the project NEAR2050 (Long term needs of different actors in the railway sector), a Shift2Rail-funded project, which aims to determine the long-term needs of different actors in the railway sector. In order to achieve this, and based on the Shift to Rail project brief, looks at several main topics. These include:"br" A determination of the long-term changes in future needs. The existing systems currently in use in the rail sector will be classified and based on the future trends and requirements of customers. This will look at the customer and stakeholder behavior before, during and after a journey or working routine."br" The NEAR2050 project tries to determine and analyses mega-trends and scenarios for 2022, 2030 and 2050.This is to assess how the “landscape of mobility” will change for the mentioned years and result in recommendations for the Shift2Rail master plan."br" Three partners from Austria, Germany and Spain are analyzing the current and the future situation of the European Rail sector."br" Based on citizen participation techniques, trend and megatrends studies the main objective is to asses a future railway transport policy recommendations in terms of customer and railways sector demands."br" All this work will serve to enhance the railways sector in Europe in the future. What is going to happen with the future of railways sector in Europe? What we all have to do to improve this important mean of transport in terms not only for passengers but freights?. NEAR2050 project thank to Shift to Rail support is analyzing the current and future EU rail S¡sector situation to answer all these questions.