In a warning to the upcoming coalition government, Federal Minister of Transport Volker Wissing emphasized the necessity of continuing the Germany Ticket, a public transportation pass valid nationwide, as he fears the potential backlash from nearly 14 million users if it is discontinued. Wissing, who holds no party affiliation, described the Germany Ticket as "the biggest modernization push of recent decades" and pointed out its role in encouraging greater public transport use while easing financial burdens, particularly for workers in rural areas.
Speaking to the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland (RND), Wissing cautioned against what he termed a "backward political move" if the ticket were to be eliminated. He stated, "This significant reform, which has financially relieved millions of households, would be a step backward." The token currently costs €58, an increase from its previous €49, a change that has already sparked intense criticism from many users and advocacy groups.
The funding for the ticket is set to lapse at the end of 2025, with current federal subsidies only guaranteed until then. Talks between the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) include discussions about the future of the Germany Ticket, with suggestions that its price might increase further should it continue.
Wissing's remarks echoed sentiments expressed by transport industry representatives. Oliver Wolff, the managing director of the Association of Public Transport Companies (VDV), referred to the Germany Ticket as a "success story" and urged the new government to provide binding financial support to maximize its potential. He criticized the existing political uncertainty surrounding the ticket's longevity and its impact on public transport infrastructure.
Recently, the VDV also praised a proposed special fund for infrastructure improvements, asserting that investment is needed to maintain and enhance the functioning of Germany’s transport systems. Wolff highlighted the urgency for governmental action, emphasizing that many citizens feel disillusioned with the deteriorating conditions of transport and energy networks, schools, and hospitals. He insisted that now is the time for significant investment to revitalize these essential structures.
In mid-February, prior to the federal elections, the VDV unveiled an urgent transport policy program aimed at the first 100 days of a new government. This program included proposals for actionable steps regarding financing and upgrading rail and public transport infrastructure. Wolff stated, “It is essential that long-term investments are assured from the outset… this is the right path with the current proposal of a ten-year special fund.”
As discussions continue within the CDU/CSU and SPD coalition talks, transport stakeholders are keeping a watchful eye on the future of the Germany Ticket and the accompanying infrastructure investments. The necessity of a reliable commitment to funding will be vital to ensuring the sustainability of this initiative and addressing the concerns of countless commuters.
Ultimately, the fate of the Germany Ticket may hinge not only on political negotiations but also on the broader public demand for better transport systems and the commitments from the government to improve them. Wissing's warning could resonate with policymakers as they consider the practical repercussions of their decisions not just for today, but for a generation of commuters who depend on reliable public transport.
