Five Years of the Mobility Act in Berlin - Criticism of the Senate - Berlin's Mobility Act fails to deliver five years after its bold promises

Berlin's Mobility Act, introduced in 2018, promised better conditions for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users. Five years later, critics argue the city has fallen short of its goals. The German Pedestrian Association (Fuss e.V.) claims progress remains limited despite the law's ambitious targets.

The Mobility Act was designed to prioritise walking, cycling, and public transit in urban planning. Its aim was a safer, greener transport system for the capital. However, Fuss e.V. board member Roland Stimpel accused three senators of failing to meet the law's requirements for pedestrians and cyclists.

Current Transport Senator Ute Bonde (CDU) faces criticism for allegedly neglecting pedestrians in mobility policy. She responded by calling for a practical, affordable, and safe approach—one that Berliners would support. Bonde also warned against turning mobility into a cultural battleground, stressing the need for fair, clear rules.

The Senate Transport Administration acknowledged the law's useful guidelines but highlighted challenges in day-to-day implementation. Despite the act's vision, gaps remain between policy and real-world results.

Five years on, Berlin's Mobility Act has yet to deliver its promised improvements. The Senate and advocacy groups agree on the law's potential but differ on how to bridge the gap. Implementation remains the key hurdle in transforming the city's transport system.