EU Parliament backs faster rollout of trans-European high-speed rail network

In a decisive vote, the European Parliament adopted recommendations aimed at speeding up the construction of a high-speed railway grid that would connect EU capitals, key regional cities and bordering states. The measure received overwhelming support, with 558 votes for, 23 against and 73 abstentions, and was endorsed by every Hungarian MEP present from the Tisza, Fidesz and DK parties, while Mi Hazánk’s Borvendég Zsuzsanna chose to abstain.

The text follows the European Commission’s action plan presented in November 2025, which envisions a faster, more cohesive rail network by 2040. It stresses the need to extend high-speed links beyond major corridors to less-developed and geographically isolated regions, reducing territorial disparities and boosting mobility for workers, businesses and tourism. Funding is expected to come from the EU’s 2028-2034 budget, including the European Fund for Strategic Investments and national programmes, to cover both infrastructure upgrades and affordable ticketing schemes. The Parliament also highlighted the role of greener rail travel in cutting emissions and enhancing the EU’s strategic autonomy.