A Global Challenge: A Shared Engagement and New Signs of Hope

Global road safety represents not only a major worldwide challenge but also an inevitable crisis. Indeed, more than a million lives are lost each year on roads, with youth and vulnerable populations being the most at risk. Despite these alarming numbers, new signs of hope are emerging: more than half of the countries aligned with the UN have seen a decrease in road deaths, with ten of them having already cut their death rates by half in just 10 years.

In this context, Morocco and Africa play a crucial and central role. By organizing the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in February 2025, Morocco affirms its commitment to strengthened global cooperation, as demonstrated by the creation of the National Road Safety Agency (NARSA). This event, organized in partnership with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics and the World Health Organization (WHO), serves as a platform for cooperation and the exchange of innovative solutions as well as the promotion of strategic partnerships and the recognition of Africa’s efforts in the fight against this tragedy.

This fourth edition follows the previous conferences held in Russia (2009), Brazil (2015), and Sweden (2020). It will be an opportunity to capitalize on the advancements made, such as the implementation of the Global Road Safety Plan (2021-2030), as well as the promotion of new technologies and public-private partnerships for a more efficient and effective approach to road safety management.

An International Mobilization for More Concrete Initiatives

With the participation of 193 countries, more than 100 ministers, 2,500 participants, and around 260 speakers, this conference distinguishes itself with a rich and varied program, highlighting innovation in the service of road safety through several side events, including:

• The International Road Safety Film Festival
• Ten Steps for Safer Road Infrastructure
• The Innovation Competition, showcasing cutting-edge solutions for road safety
• The High-Level Pledging Forum for fund mobilization in support of the UN Road Safety Fund (UNRSF)
• The Global Meeting of NGOs for Road Safety and Victims of Road Traffic Accidents
• The Youth Assembly for Road Safety

The program will also include plenary sessions featuring high-level speakers, thematic workshops, and discussions on public policies and best practices in road safety.

Several themes will be covered during the conference, including:

• Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030
• Road Safety Strategies: Institutionalization, Leadership, and Financing Mechanisms
• Public and sectoral policies: Transport, equipment, interior and public health
• Local and territorial management: Mayors, elected authorities, and territorial administrations
• Legislation and regulations of road safety
• Development of road infrastructure
• Mobility safety and mobility inside and outside the urban area
• Road monitoring and control mechanisms
• Ambulances and care for victims of traffic accidents

By gathering experts and decision-makers from all over the world, this conference aims to transform ambitions into concrete actions to save lives. The key objectives include:

• Assess the achievements and progress of the Global Road Safety Master Plan 2021-2030.
• Renew and strengthen countries’s commitment to achieving the goals of the Decade of Action for Road Safety by 2030.
• Exchange and share expertise, pioneering experiences and best practices, in reducing road fatalities.
• Promote partnership and cooperation between the different sectors
• Promote the integration of new technologies in road safety management administration.

With strengthened cooperation and effective policies, it is possible to make roads safer, ensuring a better future for all. Together, let’s work for safer roads and a better world. ]]> https://www.narsa-securiteroutiere.ma/fr/global-ministerial-conference-paving-the-way-for-sustainable-road-safety/ Wed, 05 Feb 2025 14:32:51 +0000 https://v2securiteroutiere.ltc.ma/?p=7140 The 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety will be held in Marrakech, Morocco, from February 18 to 20, 2025. Under the theme “Commit to Life,” Its goal is to halve road fatalities by 2030, addressing the global crisis that causes around 1.2 million deaths annually. Hosting this event underscores Morocco’s commitment to international cooperation in road safety, supported by the National Road Safety Agency (NARSA). In partnership with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics and the WHO, the conference will foster innovation, strategic partnerships, and highlight Africa’s role in tackling road safety challenges.

Road safety at the heart of sustainable mobility

The conference invites us to envision the future of roads with a fresh perspective, making road safety a central focus of innovation and change. Through engaging discussions, it will tackle the pressing challenges and exciting opportunities of creating a safer, greener, and more inclusive world. Key topics on the agenda include:

The Future of road rafety amid climate change and emerging mobility solutions

Climate change is changing the way we think about road safety, as extreme weather brings new risks for drivers and pedestrians. At the same time, innovations like electric and self-driving vehicles are transforming how we move. This theme underscores the importance of balancing sustainability with safety, making sure these environmental and technological changes improve life for everyone.

Empowering Governments: Pathways to Sustainable Road Safety Financing

Funding road safety remains a significant challenge in ensuring adequate infrastructure and effective policies. Achieving ambitious road safety goals requires strong and sustainable financial resources. Identifying solutions that enable governments to act effectively is essential to saving lives today and for generations to come.

Focus on africa : A key region for global efforts

Africa faces some of the highest road traffic fatality rates globally. However, the continent also presents opportunities, with a young population and growing innovation. This theme will focus on tailored solutions for improving road infrastructure, legislation, public awareness, and emergency response systems to significantly reduce traffic-related injuries and deaths.

Private sector engagement : The Role of Businesses in Road Safety

The private sector plays a vital role in making roads safer. Companies can invest in better infrastructure, develop cutting-edge technologies like driver-assistance systems, and promote safety awareness among their employees and customers. This theme explores how businesses can partner with governments and communities to drive impactful change.

From mobilizing to organizing : The Challenges of Implementation

Turning promises into action is still a big challenge. This theme highlights the everyday struggles of making road safety measures work, like bringing stakeholders together, managing resources, and tackling practical obstacles. It’s a reminder that turning ideas into real change is what truly makes a difference.

The Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Marrakech unites nations to prioritize road safety globally. It calls for shared responsibility, innovation, and compassion for all road users. Together, we have the power to create a safer, more compassionate world for everyone on the road.