We reached out to Marijke van Haaren to see what her current thoughts are on cycling in the EU, the Netherlands, and asked her which countries or cities are inspiring the nation that inspires cycling across the world.

For those who were in attendance for the final discussion panel at Velo-city 2013 in Vienna was inspiring and informative. Curated by ECF Secretary General Dr. Bernhard Ensink, the panel was comprised of European Commission Vice President Siim Kallas, MEPs Mathieu Grosch (EPP), Michael Cramer (Greens),  and ECF Member organization presidents, Ulrich Sybert from German ADFC and Marijke van Haren from Dutch Fietsersbond.

It has been over two months since the discussion and now that the dust has settled we felt inclined to pose a few questions to those who participated.

Q: Where do you think Europe is at this point? What are your thoughts on the support or lack thereof from the EU?

Marijke van Haaren: It is positive that cycling is not a blind spot anymore in Europe. However, a more proactive and enthusiastic attitude is required. Cycling is an important mode of contribution and has a lot to offer to Europe and especially to congested and polluted cities.

Q: Why was it important for Vice President Kallas to be at Velo-city?

MvH: This Velo-city showed that cycling is on the agenda in many European countries and cities and is seen as an answer to many problems cities are facing. It is good that mister Kallas could feel the vibe of the conference and experience that the cycling movement is growing in importance and impact.

Q: VP Kallas extended an invitation to national and regional cycling groups to submit applications in order to gain access to Europe’s “pockets”. What do you think is most important to ensure that these applications are successful?

MvH: National, regional and local governments should be aware that major investments in cycling can be co-funded by Europe. European applications are not simple and should be prepared carefully. ECF-members can and should bring the possibilities to the attention of their governments at different levels. (For more info on submitting proposals you can see our guide here)

Q: Everyone is always looking at the Netherlands for cycling advice. You said that you hope to increase Dutch cycling to 35% by 2030. What obstacles stand in the way of reaching this goal? Put another way, what needs to be improved in “cycling paradise”?

MvH: Existing infrastructure may seem like paradise to people from other countries, but we really need a next phase in infrastructure and policies. For further growth, we need more space in our cities, massive investments in bicycle parking and safety measures for the growing group of elderly cyclists. We also want an increase in fast regional cycling routes, with the pedelec (1,2 million sold in the Netherlands) it is possible to cycle longer distances. (See our pro E-bike section here).

Q: As mentioned above, people always look to the Netherlands for cycling advice. But, are any other countries/cities  inspiring the Fietsersbond with new ideas or approaches to cycling infrastructure?

MvH: It is inspiring to see that the idea of fast regional routes or bicycle highways is developing around Europe. We also are jealous of Austria and Germany with their national cycling plans, something our government does not want. When it comes to marketing and communication, we can certainly learn a lot from cities like Copenhagen and Munich.