Eastern Mediterranean Region Grapples with High Road Traffic Fatalities

Strategic Insights -

The Eastern Mediterranean Region accounts for 11% of global road traffic fatalities, with pedestrians and cyclists making up more than 30% of these deaths. To address this critical issue, the eighth UN Global Road Safety Week is currently underway, promoting safer walking and cycling through practical, evidence-based interventions. The campaign aims to improve road safety for non-motorized users and aligns with global plans to reduce road deaths and improve urban liveability.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Eastern Mediterranean Region accounts for 11% of global road traffic fatalities, the second highest rate among WHO regions.
  • Pedestrians and cyclists make up more than 30% of these deaths, the highest proportion globally after Africa.
  • The eighth UN Global Road Safety Week is promoting safer walking and cycling through practical, evidence-based interventions.
  • Many countries in the region have taken steps to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety, including safer pedestrian crossings in 11 countries and bicycle insurance in two.
  • Promoting safe walking and cycling can reduce road traffic injuries, cut air and noise pollution, and support public health by encouraging physical activity.
  • Regular physical activity, including walking and cycling, helps prevent noncommunicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers, while also supporting mental health and healthy growth and muscle development in children and adolescents.
  • The campaign aligns with the 'Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030' and the 'Strategic Action Framework to Strengthen Road Safety Systems in the Eastern Mediterranean Region'.

Statistics:

  • 11% of global road traffic fatalities occur in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.
  • Over 30% of road traffic fatalities in the Eastern Mediterranean Region involve pedestrians and cyclists.
  • 11 countries in the region have implemented safer pedestrian crossings.
  • 2 countries in the region have implemented bicycle insurance.

Sources:

  • Eastern Mediterranean Region accounts for 11% of global road traffic fatalities (according to the World Health Organization)
  • Pedestrians and cyclists make up over 30% of road traffic fatalities in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (according to the World Health Organization)
  • 11th UN Global Road Safety Week is promoting safer walking and cycling (as reported by the World Health Organization)
  • Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030 (according to the World Health Organization)
  • Strategic Action Framework to Strengthen Road Safety Systems in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (according to the World Health Organization)