Back in 2021, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) warned that digitalisation, teleworking, algorithmic control, and new forms of employment would fundamentally change the world of work. Today, four years later, we see that these processes are no longer a forecast but a daily reality — especially in transport.

Automation, the platform economy, staff shortages, growing pressure for productivity, and continuous connectivity put workers in the sector under increasingly strong physical and mental pressure. This is precisely why the EESC's warnings from 2021 sound even more relevant in 2026.

Transport – a sector under constant pressure! The transport sector is among the most affected by the digital transition. In recent years, the following have accelerated:

• the use of GPS and digital surveillance systems;

• algorithmic management of work;

• platform employment models;

• automated planning of routes and working hours;

• electronisation and the green transition.

• Video surveillance in drivers' cabs and dispatch control centers.

All of this changes not only the organisation of work but also the conditions under which transport workers operate.

Drivers, dispatchers, logistics workers, public transport employees, and delivery drivers increasingly face:

• continuous control;

• pressure for higher productivity;

• extended working hours;

• mental exhaustion;

• lack of rest;

• chronic stress and burnout.

Back in 2021, the EESC warned that algorithmic management and digital control could lead to "mental overload, hyperconnectivity, and social isolation".

Today, this is already clearly visible in the transport sector.

Digital control must not replace human rights! Many transport companies are already using systems that monitor:

• routes;

• speed;

• rest time;

• driver behavior;

• real-time efficiency.

In some cases, decisions regarding workload, evaluations, or sanctions are made automatically by algorithms.

This raises serious questions:

• Who controls the algorithms?

• How is the privacy of workers protected?

• How is abuse of digital surveillance prevented?

• What are the boundaries between safety and constant control?

Back in 2021, the EESC insisted that high-risk AI systems in the workplace should be subject to independent assessment and control by a third party.

Today, this issue is particularly important for transport, where algorithmic decisions can directly affect the safety, health, and income of workers.

Staff shortages exacerbate the problem! The European transport sector is experiencing a serious shortage of personnel. Many countries lack professional drivers, mechanics, and technical specialists. Instead of this leading to improved working conditions, it often results in:

• higher workload;

• overtime work;

• less recovery time;

• greater risk of occupational accidents.

This directly confirms the EESC's warning that prolonged stress and overload are becoming a leading health risk for workers.

Green transition and new challenges! The transition to electric and "smart" transport systems is also changing professions in the sector. The following are needed:

• new skills;

• continuous training;

• adaptation to new technologies;

• protection of workers in the transformation process.

Without the active participation of trade unions and social dialogue, there is a risk that the cost of the transition will once again be paid mainly by the workers.

Social dialogue remains key! The EESC stresses that social dialogue is the main tool for managing changes in the world of work. This applies fully to transport.

Today, more than ever, the following are needed:

• collective bargaining;

• clear rules for digital surveillance;

• mental health protection;

• the right to rest and "disconnect";

• trade union involvement in the implementation of AI systems;

• real control over working conditions.

Transport is the backbone of the economy, but behind every kilometer traveled, behind every flight serviced, or behind every ship unloaded, there are people. The digital and green transitions will not be successful if they are built at the expense of their health, safety, and dignity.

This is precisely why the EESC's warnings and recommendations from 2021 sound not just relevant today, but urgent.