IRU is the global industry association for road transport, driving the sustainable mobility of people and goods across the planet.
We lead solutions to help the world move better, supporting trade, economic growth, jobs, safety, the environment and communities. IRU’s work spans more than 100 countries. Our core constituents are national transport associations and transport operators. But we also work closely with business, governments, the UN and international organisations. At the heart of IRU are millions of journeys across the planet every day: people and goods moving to where they need to be, in buses, coaches, taxis or trucks, for all, or even just a small part, of their journey.
IRU believes in mobility that supports economies, jobs, security, the environment and communities.
We believe in transport networks that are safe, accessible, rapid, efficient and adaptable, reasonably priced, innovative and interconnected.
We believe in transport markets that are fair, well-regulated and non-discriminatory to different modes or users.
IRU is an independent, democratic international organisation. Members meet, debate and vote twice a year at the General Assembly and at two transport councils. IRU’s President and board, the Presidential Executive, are elected by active members and provide strategic, financial and organisational oversight.
IRU is funded by membership fees, some direct project funding from multilateral institutions, revenue from services we provide for road transport operators, and fees and sponsorship from a small number of events.
IRU was founded in 1948 to help war-torn Europe build trade and commercial links. Seven decades later, our activities now span more than 100 countries.
IRU develops standards and best practice, trains drivers and operators, builds networks in and around the industry, organises events, drives advocacy and campaigns, and provides innovative services.
Led by a Secretary General, IRU has around 150 staff based in Geneva, and at offices in Brussels, Istanbul, Moscow and New York.
IRU members are primarily national associations for passenger or goods transport. They include associations of truck, bus, coach and taxi operators, associations for a specific category of road transport, chambers of commerce and automobile clubs. IRU also has associate members who are national and international not-for profit associations and companies.
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