UN Global Road Safety Week Kicks Off Focused on Walking and Cycling
Cairo, Egypt – 12 May 2025 – Today marks the start of the eighth UN Global Road Safety Week, an initiative led by the United Nations General Assembly. This year’s campaign highlights the importance of walking and cycling.
The campaign aims to encourage both national and local actions to improve the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. It promotes evidence-based solutions that can be adopted by various stakeholders, including governments, organizations, businesses, schools, communities, and civil groups.
Safe walking and cycling are not just about road safety; they also contribute to healthier communities. These activities play a crucial role in preventing diseases such as obesity, heart issues, and diabetes. Regular physical activity can enhance overall well-being, support mental health, and aid in child development by promoting healthy growth and cognitive skills. Additionally, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety can improve urban transport systems, reducing traffic accidents and pollution.
According to the Global Status Report for Road Safety 2023, the Eastern Mediterranean Region accounts for 11% of road traffic deaths globally and has the second-highest fatality rate among WHO regions. Notably, pedestrians and cyclists represent over 30% of these fatalities—one of the highest rates worldwide.
The report highlights various safety interventions in the region, such as implementing safe crossings in 11 countries and providing bicycle insurance in two countries.
UN resolutions have consistently emphasized the need for safe walking and cycling. Recent resolutions encourage Member States to adopt comprehensive strategies that enhance laws, infrastructure, and city planning to protect pedestrians and cyclists and promote safe mobility options.
The Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021–2030 offers practical measures for countries to make walking and cycling safer, incorporating them into broader transport and development initiatives.
With the eighth UN Global Road Safety Week coinciding with ongoing efforts in the Decade of Action for Road Safety, there is a significant opportunity to build on recent momentum. Collective actions are necessary to create pedestrian-friendly environments and meet the global goals of reducing traffic deaths and serious injuries by 50% by 2030.
Now is the time to take action and enhance road safety for everyone.
