The TAIEX Workshop on “The Role of Data Management in Improving Road Traffic Safety” was held on April 07-09, 2025, in Ankara, Türkiye, by Technical Assistance and Information Exchange instrument of the European Commission (TAIEX) and the Türkiye Police Academy.
The program brought together key stakeholders from government bodies, the private sector, and NGOs for a three-day event to enhance regional road safety strategies in line with EU standards.
The workshop opened with presentations from various police departments who shared national accident data, underlining significant traffic causes of fatalities such as heavy vehicle collisions, unsafe lane changes, and rear-end crashes. Despite increased fines in recent years, representatives noted that accident rates remain high, pointing to red light violations, driving under the influence of intoxicants, and failure to wear seat belts, as persistent issues.
A Lithuanian Delegation, in the event comprising experts from the Transport Competence Agency and the Lithuanian Police, shared their success story of a two-decade road safety strategy that significantly reduced accidents and fatalities. Additionally, the Lithuanian team highlighted their analytical approach to road construction and the key role of private sector involvement.
A noteworthy exchange occurred between Dr. Mehmet Duman, UCLG-MEWA Secretary General, and Ayşenur Yetik Aras from the Turkish Ministry of Health, focusing on optimizing ambulance station placements for faster emergency response.
The workshop concluded with interactive sessions where participants tackled real accident case studies from Lithuania, fostering discussion and collaboration. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to exchange expertise and gain deeper insights into traffic safety and data management.