Actions

The prioritization of projects and actions in connection with the political representation of special interests is generally based on their importance for achieving the targets set out in the corporate strategy. Major projects at national and European level in 2025 with significance for DB Group are described under Political influence and lobbying activities (G1-5) as well as in the combined management report under development of business environment.

The specific measures in connection with the representation of special interests depend on the respective project and the political decision-making processes. The job profile includes the preparation of relevant facts and figures as well as the development of transport, safety, economic and environmental policy arguments for DB Group, the observation and analysis of developments and initiatives in DB Group’s political environment at the EU, Federal Government, Federal states, municipalities, parties, associations and (transport) science levels, comparing the results of the analysis with the positions and strategies of DB Group and representing the special interest of DB Group with regard to the European Parliament, the Federal Government, the German Parliament (Bundestag), Upper House of Parliament (Bundesrat), parties and party-affiliated institutions. In connection with this, dialog events and discussions are held with members of the Government, members of parliament and representatives of the ministries and the Federal states. In addition, opinions and expert reports on specific regulatory projects are prepared and submitted. Work in and with associations is also of central importance. DB Group is a member of several associations. The following memberships are particularly relevant for political discourse (in alphabetical order based on German designation):

• Pro-Rail Alliance (Allianz pro Schiene; ApS)
• Mobility and Transport Services Association (Arbeitgeber und Wirtschaftsverband der Mobilitäts- und Verkehrsdienstleister; AGV MOVE)
• Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER)
• German Transport Forum (Deutsches Verkehrsforum; DVF)
• International Union of Railways (UIC)
• Association of German Transport Companies (Verband Deutscher Verkehrsunternehmen; VDV)

The annual financial expenses of DB Group in connection with the representation of special interests primarily comprise personnel expenses, expenses for the provision of the necessary infrastructure for the activities of employees working in connection with special interest groups, membership fees and representation expenses. Information on annual expenses is included in the reporting in the lobby register and the European transparency register. This information is updated and published in the European transparency register in April and in the lobby register by the end of June.

Action plans 2026

The measures described will be continued in 2026.