An essential objective of this research was to find concrete ways to improve security and decrease feeling of insecurity.

The research revealed significant results on the subject that is very little examined in Finland. Experiencing disturbance and violence has increased which strongly influences on travelling behaviour, working environment and image of public transport. The findings about how insecurity is experienced and how common it is to feel insecure in public transport are alarming considering both passengers and personnel. In the light of these research results concrete improving of security is very important.

This report represents proposals for action to lessen the insecurity of public transport in Finland metropolitan area. Recommendations are related e.g. to public transport infrastructure planning and maintenance, surveillance, communications, funding and cooperation between parties.

Insecurity has increased in the whole society during the past few years. This has turned reduction of insecurity into one of the most important targets for development also in public transport.

This research is part of the JOTU public transport research programme.

In this research the state of so called social security in public transport was clarified from the point of view of passengers, general public and personnel. Research methods used were desktop research, enquiry research and workshops.

Based on the literature the feeling of insecurity was perceived as a phenomenon. Elements causing these feelings were researched. Empirical part of the research was carried out by informed enquiry and mail enquiry. Main themes were personal experiences in insecurity of public transport and insecurity's influence on travelling behaviour and working. Also specifying essential development needs was an important factor. Concrete means of development and possibilities to collaborate on the subject were discussed by experts in three workshop groups. Content of the workshops was defined by the issues identified in the enquiry.

Ministry of Transport and Communications
Ms. Katariina Myllärniemi (Senior Officer), tel. +358 9 160 28759

15/12/2005

Marko Forsblom and Hannele Happonen / JP-Transplan Oy

research

Urban Policy > Security & crime prevention

Sense of insecurity