Fear of unsafe conditions reduces public transport use in Helsinki region

A new survey commissioned by the cities of Helsinki and Espoo reveals that perceived insecurity is discouraging residents from using public transport in the capital region.

The study found that experiences of unsafe conditions directly affect people’s willingness to use public transit. Some respondents reported avoiding commuter trains entirely due to fear.

Women were more likely to report safety concerns, with 43 percent of female respondents citing security issues compared to 30 percent of men. The most common sources of unease were disruptive behaviour and intimidating individuals or groups at stations and on vehicles.

Over 1,000 residents participated in the survey, with 41 percent indicating they had encountered safety-related challenges while travelling. For many, these concerns contributed to a preference for private car use.