Rising violence on public transport is becoming an increasing concern. While the number of reported incidents has risen, the severity of attacks has not.
In 2025, more than 1,100 attacks were recorded across all networks – including trains, buses, and trams. That marks an increase of around 100 cases compared to the previous year.
The railway network remains particularly affected: over 650 incidents were reported on trains alone. Most of these involved verbal aggression, though threats and isolated physical attacks were also documented.
With approximately 31 million passengers per year, the number of travellers has risen sharply in recent years. Crowded spaces can quickly lead to rising tensions – something that also takes a toll on those working aboard trains.
Jerry has worked as a train conductor for the Luxembourg National Railway Company (CFL) for the past 17 years. In his view, the shift in mood became noticeable after the Covid-19 pandemic. While many passengers remain courteous, he says staff have observed a slight decline in mutual respect.
Most daily incidents are minor: passengers putting their feet on seats, leaving behind litter, or speaking loudly on the phone. But not every situation stays harmless.
One encounter remains etched in Jerry’s memory – not least because it ultimately ended up in court. On 6 September 2024, a passenger spat in Jerry’s face and neck.
“That is, of course, not particularly pleasant”, he said.
According to CFL, reports of verbal aggression against staff are submitted every other day via an internal application. Sonja Schruppen of the Passenger Safety Service believes the digitalisation of the reporting process in 2022 partly explains the rise in recorded cases.
In her view, the situation has not necessarily worsened. Rather, staff are filing reports more frequently because the process has become more accessible.
She noted that the number of work accidents related to aggression actually decreased slightly last year, to a total of four.
Beyond the recording of incidents, CFL is focusing heavily on prevention. This includes staff training in conflict management, de-escalation techniques, and self-defence.
The aim is to defuse critical situations before they escalate. Describing his own approach to handling agitated passengers, Jerry said his goal is “not adding more fuel to the fire”.
Another key factor is visible presence on the ground. Doris Horvath, who oversees safety at CFL, outlined three pillars of the company’s strategy: human presence, infrastructure, and awareness-raising.
She noted that around 15% of CFL trains are currently patrolled by external security personnel. These so-called “critical trains” are selected based on observations, with patrols reinforced on highly frequented lines and during late evening hours.
Infrastructure also plays a role. Video surveillance, well-lit stations, and open-floor layouts are intended to make passengers feel safer.
In parallel, CFL regularly runs awareness campaigns, including the Day of Respect on Public Transport. The message is clear: zero tolerance for violence.
Despite rising figures, CFL maintains that the situation is not deteriorating. Instead, the digitalisation of reporting systems has led to more incidents being recorded, increasing overall visibility.
Still, the challenge remains significant. Safety on trains depends not only on technical solutions but also on appropriate human responses.
For passengers and staff alike, public transport is meant to remain a place where people feel both safe and respected.
