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Taxibus: Alert on Service Reduction in Brussels

The Brussels Council of People with Disabilities sounds the alarm: the reduction of the STIB Taxibus service threatens access to mobility, healthcare, employment, and social inclusion.


A decision that undermines user autonomy

In July 2025, STIB unilaterally decided to reduce the Taxibus service offer by 30%, limiting each user to 60 trips per month and requiring mandatory booking 15 days in advance .

However, the Taxibus is vital for thousands of Brussels residents with disabilities. This door-to-door service allows them to access employment, healthcare, training, as well as social and cultural activities . Its restriction constitutes a direct violation of the fundamental right to mobility, enshrined by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities .

 


Concrete impacts and legal risks

According to the findings of the CPH, this reduction amounts to the elimination of 23,000 trips per year for the 3,000 current users . Testimonials already show severe consequences: job loss, inability to attend day centers or medical appointments .

The Council also highlights the digital exclusion: the booking website remains inaccessible to many users, who must use the phone, often too late due to slot saturation .

From a legal perspective, this decision violates Belgium's commitments under the CRPD (articles 5, 9, 19, and 20) and the UN Committee's recommendations to enhance transport accessibility .

 

 
Council's recommendations

To resolve the deadlock, the CPH notably proposes :

  • an immediate moratorium on trip restrictions and new booking rules;

  • an urgent consultation between the Region, STIB, associations, and municipalities to develop a sustainable solution;

  • a structural revision of the adapted mobility model, integrating Taxibus, accessible public transport, and alternative services;

  • a firm budget commitment from 2026 to ensure the service's sustainability;

  • clear and accessible communication, including Easy-to-Read and Understand (FALC) versions.

The Council concludes that the Taxibus reduction is incompatible with international commitments and non-discrimination principles. It calls for rapid and collective mobilization to preserve this essential service .

 


Sources

  • Opinion A-2025-005-CPH, Brussels Council of People with Disabilities (September 24, 2025): Official PDF

  • Brussels Council of People with Disabilities (CPH): Brupartners website

 

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