Rural mobility at a turning point: mobility guarantee vs. funding gaps

How do we ensure mobility in rural areas when micro public transport (demand‑responsive services) comes under pressure? Media briefing by “Diskurs. Das Wissenschaftsnetz” with contributions from BOKU and TU Wien.

While public transport in cities is considered the “backbone” of mobility, rural areas remain heavily car‑dependent. Spatial structures and planning decisions often favor motorized individual transport. For people without their own car, demand‑responsive services (micro public transport) ensure social participation and access to essential everyday trips.

However, these services are increasingly under pressure. With the discontinuation of the “Regiotaxi” in Styria at the end of March 2026, the debate about cost-effectiveness and the question of a mobility guarantee is intensifying.

Against this background, we invite you to an online media briefing by “Diskurs. Das Wissenschaftsnetz,” featuring expert contributions from our institute and TU Wien.

Experts

  • Sandra Wegener (Institute for Transport Studies, BOKU): “Micro Public Transport in Rural Areas – Between Expansion and Rollback”
  • Günter Emberger (Vienna University of Technology): “Mobility in Rural Areas – Pathways to Reducing Car Dependence”
  • Moderator: Alexander Behr

Date and participation

  • Date: 19 March 2026
  • Time: 10:00
  • Venue: Online (Zoom)
  • Language: German

Registration

Link to registration

We look forward to a factual discussion on how sustainable and fair mobility for all population groups—regardless of place of residence—can be ensured.

13.03.2026