Railway Cooperation Organization

The Organization for Cooperation of Railways (OSShD) is an international organization established on June 28, 1956, in Sofia, bringing together 30 countries from Europe and Asia. Its goal is to develop international railway transport and standardize legal norms concerning passenger and freight transport. The history of OSShD dates back to the 1950s, when the first agreements regulating railway transport were created, including the Agreements on Passenger Transport (MPS) and Freight Transport (MGS). Over the years, OSShD has significantly developed, and its activities have encompassed not only transport but also technical and economic cooperation in the railway sector. The founding conference took place in 1956, when the organization's Statute and directions of its activities were established. OSShD includes both state executive bodies and railway companies, enabling synergistic actions in the field of railway transport. OSShD manages 13 transport corridors that facilitate communication between Europe and Asia, and their development is crucial for the efficiency of freight transport. The executive body of OSShD is the Committee, headquartered in Warsaw, whose work supports the achievement of the organization's goals. It is also worth noting that throughout its activities, OSShD adapts and modernizes norms and procedures, contributing to the increased competitiveness of railway transport and the development of new strategies in the transport market.