AN ANALYSIS ON TRANSPORTATION EQUITY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IN THE NETHERLANDS AND FLANDERS: POLICIES, PRACTICES AND STAKEHOLDER PERSPECTIVES

Purpose: Almost daily, news articles about the fairness and equity of the transportation system in The Netherlands and Flanders are published. Policymakers appear uncertain about how to improve mobility for their inhabitants. This thesis provides a clear and comprehensive overview of what the best options are for policy makers within this region. Specifically, this thesis focuses on transportation equity for people with disabilities. Methods: This study concerns a case-study research design. Additionally, this thesis employs content analysis and interviews. First, the existing policies are examined and evaluated. Next, experts on the topic, within the chosen region are interviewed for more comprehensive insights. Through both single case analysis and cross-case analysis, the drafted hypotheses are tested. Results: The distribution of burdens and benefits influences the experienced transportation equity for people with a disability. Accessibility, mobility, availability and reliability are the most influential factors. The influence of safety is less clear in this study. While stigma from passengers occurs in the regions, there is no mention of systematic issues. Stigma from personnel can occur at times, but trainings are provided to prevent it. Moreover, existing stigma issues did not seem to affect transportation equity. There are significant differences in clarity of goals. Regions with goals that do not follow the SMART framework can be expected to have more transportation inequity. Most regions follow the same assessment standard, sufficientarianism. This will likely not be influential for the transportation equity situation. Conclusion: Improving transportation equity for people with disabilities in the Netherlands and Flanders requires enhancing accessibility, setting clear and measurable goals, and fostering stakeholder participation. Best practices observed include Rotterdam's clear, measurable objectives and Amsterdam's innovative OV-coaches program, which effectively supports people with mental disabilities. By adopting these best practices and learning from successful policy innovations, significant strides can be made towards equitable transportation for all.