Discrimination is a structural risk that disproportionately affects migrant and third-country drivers in the sector, who are disproportionately involved in cross-border trucking. They may be exposed to a heightened risk of violence, harassment and discrimination at border crossings, rest areas, inspection points and along international routes and transport corridors. Such experiences may deter drivers from raising concerns, reporting incidents or seeking assistance, particularly if they fear retaliation, losing their job, or negative consequences for their legal status or pay.
Gender-based discrimination remains a significant barrier to entry and a persistent risk for the small percentage of women in the industry. Only 2-3% of truck drivers are women, and this figure has not changed significantly in recent years. They face additional and often overlooked discrimination in road transport. The sector’s infrastructure—from truck cabins and safety equipment to roadside rest stops and warehouse loading bays—is historically designed for a male workforce, often lacking safe, private, and sanitary facilities for women. They are also confronted with financial barriers to entering the profession due to the high cost of licences, unsafe commute, a poor work-life balance, low pay, and stigma surrounding women in employment. Discrimination in recruitment, training, and job allocation can further limit women’s access to decent employment, fair pay and progression, increasing their vulnerability within already precarious working arrangements.
Young road transport workers, particularly those who are new to the industry, are at a higher risk due to their reliance on temporary or informal contracts, and a lack of transparency regarding pay and conditions. These workers disproportionately receive inadequate training and are under pressure to accept unsafe assignments. They fear that raising concerns could lead to job loss or a lack of future opportunities. Their vulnerability is further exacerbated by recruitment practices that impose financial burdens, such as training fees or equipment costs, creating cycles of debt and dependency. Combined with limited knowledge of their legal rights, these factors mean that the structural risks and potential abuses faced by young drivers often go undetected and unaddressed within fragmented supply chains.