On 3 November 2026, from 14:00 to 16:00 CET, UIC will host a webinar on the topic of suicide prevention, under the slogan “Because Railways Care”.
Suicides on or near railway tracks affect the entire rail sector. Beyond the tragic loss of life, these incidents have a significant impact on safety, operational performance, reputation, costs, and overall efficiency. As they affect society as a whole: railway undertakings, infrastructure managers, employees, passengers, local communities, and families, this issue requires a joint response.
To support knowledge sharing and collaboration on this critical topic, the UIC
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Network (TreSP-Network) is organising a dedicated webinar on suicide prevention on and around tracks.
Main topics to be discussed during the webinar
- What role can railways play?
- What are the approaches that work?
- What changes still need to be implemented?
Suicide remains a major global public health concern. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), approximately 727,000 people die by suicide every year worldwide.
In the European Union, suicide on railway premises is categorised separately from railway accidents. Between 2010 and 2024, the annual number of railway suicides remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 2,200 and 2,800 cases per year. The highest number was recorded in 2012, with 2,734 suicides, while 2,357 railway suicides were reported in 2024, representing a slight decrease compared to previous years.
Globally, available studies indicate that suicides involving collisions with trains account for approximately 1% to 12% of all suicides, depending on national circumstances and the extent of rail infrastructure.
These figures are reminders that suicide prevention is both a societal responsibility and a priority for ensuring railway safety. This webinar will be an opportunity for experts and stakeholders to come together to share experiences, discuss effective prevention strategies, and explore opportunities for further cooperation.
Join us to learn, share your experiences, and contribute to increasing safety.
📅 Date: [3 November 2026]
🕒 Time: [14:00–16:00 CET]
📍 Online webinar
More information (including the programme) will soon be available.
Register at: https://evenium.events/nt28cwex.
