Former road safety delegate Emmanuel Barbe has been appointed head of a four-month mission entitled “against violence, protect all road users”, the government announced on Friday.
The Ministry of Transport announced the establishment of this mission on October 21, a few days after the death of cyclist Paul Varry, killed by an SUV on a cycle path in Paris.
The mission will have four months to “propose to the government new measures to reduce conflicts of use and aggressive behavior linked to the sharing of public roads”, the ministries of Transport and Daily Security indicated in a press release.
“Calm relationships between users”
It is also about “calming relationships between users and better protecting, in particular, the most vulnerable among them, pedestrians and users of soft modes, in urban areas and outside urban areas”.
Former magistrate and prefect, Emmanuel Barbe was notably interministerial delegate for road safety from 2015 to 2019. He was then prefect of police of Bouches-du-Rhône for a few months before contributing to the creation of the police academy.
“In the face of recent tragedies, such as the death of Paul Varry, it is imperative to act firmly, in consultation, to better ensure the safety of all road users, whether by car, bicycle or on foot,” the minister stressed of Transport François Durovray.
The number of pedestrian and cyclist fatalities has increased in the last 12 months
“Emmanuel Barbe’s mission will be to propose concrete, innovative and pragmatic solutions to combat road violence, conflicts of use and better guarantee the sharing of public space. The safety of cyclists is a priority for this government and this mission represents an important step in creating a safer environment for all,” continued François Durovray.
The mission should focus in particular on permanent road education, prevention and communication on the rules and sharing of the road, on the continuous improvement of structures and signs, as well as on the identification and observation of violent behavior on the road, the ministries specify .
The number of pedestrian and cyclist deaths has increased over the last twelve months, according to road safety data, with 483 pedestrians dying between September 2023 and September 2024 (+12% in one year), as well as 240 cyclists (+10). %).
What are the key safety measures being proposed to protect vulnerable road users?
Interview Series: The Intersection of Safety and Regulation on Our Roads
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into a critical issue that affects everyone who uses the roads, whether as drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians. We have the honor of speaking with Emmanuel Barbe, the recently appointed head of the four-month mission titled “Against Violence, Protect All Road Users.” Thank you for joining us, Emmanuel.
Emmanuel Barbe: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Your mission comes in the wake of tragic events, particularly the death of cyclist Paul Varry. Can you share more about how this incident has shaped your approach moving forward?
Barbe: Absolutely. Paul Varry’s death was a devastating reminder of the dangers that exist on our roads, especially for vulnerable users like cyclists and pedestrians. This incident, unfortunately, has become a catalyst for this mission, urging us to confront the aggressive behaviors and conflicts that arise from road usage. We need to prioritize safety and empathy among all road users.
Editor: Your mission aims to “calm relationships between users.” What specific measures are you considering to achieve this?
Barbe: We are looking at a range of new strategies. For instance, we might propose educational campaigns aimed at fostering respect and understanding between different types of road users. These campaigns will emphasize the importance of safe driving, cycling, and walking. Additionally, we’re exploring potential infrastructure changes that could better separate vulnerable users from motor vehicle traffic.
Editor: That sounds promising! The focus on the most vulnerable road users is crucial. How do you plan to balance the needs and rights of all road users while enhancing safety?
Barbe: It’s a complex challenge, but the key lies in open dialogue and collaboration. We must engage various stakeholders—local governments, cycling groups, pedestrian advocates, and the automotive industry—to find common ground. Our goal is to formulate comprehensive policies that serve all users while prioritizing safety and reducing aggression on the roads.
Editor: You have an impressive background in public safety and road regulations. How do you believe your experiences will aid you in this new role?
Barbe: My background has certainly given me insight into the challenges of road safety. As the interministerial delegate for road safety, I learned a great deal about the dynamics of road use and the need for effective communication among government bodies. This experience, coupled with my time as a prefect, allows me to approach this mission from both an enforcement and an empathetic perspective.
Editor: What immediate actions can the public expect from your mission in the coming months?
Barbe: In the short term, we will be collecting data on current road usage conflicts, and we aim to roll out awareness campaigns as early as next month. Moreover, one of our first actions will be to conduct workshops with community members to gather their insights and ideas on improving road safety.
Editor: This is a vital mission you’re undertaking, and we’re eager to see the results. Do you have any final thoughts or messages for our readers who may be cycling or driving on the roads right now?
Barbe: Yes. I would say to everyone: practice patience and kindness. Every road user plays a role in making our streets safer. Be vigilant, obey traffic rules, and remember that we all share these roads. Working together, we can foster a culture of respect that benefits everyone.
Editor: Thank you, Emmanuel. We appreciate your time and dedication to this important cause. We look forward to following your mission and the positive changes that will hopefully come as a result.
Barbe: Thank you, and I appreciate the opportunity to share this vital message. Let’s work towards safer roads for all.