Why Join Fedecrail? A United Voice for Preserving Europe’s Rail Heritage
By joining Fedecrail, you become part of an organized, unified network dedicated to preserving Europe’s rail heritage. Together, we amplify our voices, sharing a common mission that strengthens each member’s individual efforts. Rather than standing alone, Fedecrail members benefit from the collective knowledge, support, and influence of a European-wide community.
As a Fedecrail member, you are not only part of a network but part of a movement—working together to ensure our shared history is preserved and appreciated. United, we are stronger, and together we can make a lasting impact that protects and promotes the railway heritage for generations to come.
At Fedecrail, our mission encompasses the entire spectrum of rail-bound cultural heritage. We are not only dedicated to preserving traditional railways but also passionately support tramways, funiculars, and other rail-bound systems that contribute to Europe’s rich history. By joining Fedecrail, you become part of a network that values and advocates for all rail-based heritage, recognizing its diverse impact on our cultural and social history.
Together, we are a united voice for the preservation of this invaluable heritage, ensuring that each unique piece—from historic tramways to scenic funiculars—receives the recognition and protection it deserves.
By joining Fedecrail, members gain access to a robust network of heritage rail professionals, resources, and support in navigating legal and regulatory frameworks. Membership provides unique benefits, such as:
- Representation and Advocacy: Fedecrail champions its members’ interests with European institutions, ensuring that heritage railways are recognized and supported at the EU level.
- Networking and Collaboration: Participate in an international network where members can share knowledge, best practices, and resources.
- Events and Conferences: Attend annual conferences and study trips that explore best practices in preservation, legislation, and environmental protection.
- Expert Resources and Training: Gain access to specialized training, webinars, and tools tailored to the needs of heritage railways.
Fedecrail invites you to join us in preserving and promoting Europe’s rail heritage. Together, we can ensure that this legacy endures, offering future generations the opportunity to experience and appreciate our shared history.
Fedecrail Membership: Join Us in Preserving Europe’s Railway Heritage
Fedecrail’s membership offers organizations and individuals a meaningful way to support and participate in the preservation of Europe’s rich railway heritage. Membership is open to a variety of organizations committed to Fedecrail’s goals, and the application process ensures that all members align with our objectives of collaboration, preservation, and cultural enrichment.
Eligibility for full voting Membership
Fedecrail’s membership categories include:
- National Organizations: Organizations that operate on a national level and share Fedecrail’s mission to promote the preservation, restoration, and operation of heritage railways.
- Museum, Tourist, Historical Railways, and Tramways: Railway museums, tourist, historical, and other similar railways and tramways are eligible for membership. This includes those located in countries without an established national railway preservation organization. Contributions and voting rights are determined based on the structure outlined in Fedecrail’s statutes.
- Railway Museums and Preservation Groups without National Representation: These groups may apply for individual membership if they are based in a country with no national organization or are not members of the national body. Membership in these cases is granted on a discretionary basis, with the General Meeting reviewing individual circumstances.
Fedecrail’s Council reviews applications and grants membership upon approval, with final ratification by the General Meeting. Applicants whose membership is initially declined have the right to appeal at the General Meeting.
Membership Contribution and Voting
Voting rights and financial contributions for each member are determined by a points system based on the nature and scale of their activities:
- One Point: Railway preservation groups with limited public access.
- Five Points: Railway museums or operators not engaged in direct rail operation but adhering to safety regulations.
- Ten Points: Museum, tourist, and historical railways operating at least ten days per year, responsible for railway operations.
One point equates to one vote and one financial contribution unit. To ensure balance, no single member or group of members from the same country may exercise more than 25% of the total voting power or bear more than 25% of the financial contribution.
Membership Cost
The minimum membership fee is currently set at 75 euros. Alternatively, fees are calculated at a rate of 11 euros per point, based on the point system that reflects the scale and activity level of each organization.
Responsibilities and Rights of Membership
Members must submit applications at least two months before the Annual General Meeting. Applications should include the organization’s bylaws and, where necessary, translations into Dutch, English, French, or German of key provisions. Resignations must be submitted in writing before October 1, or members will be liable for the following year’s contribution.
Fedecrail also offers affiliate membership to other organizations, allowing them to attend and speak at General Meetings without voting rights.