The transition toward sustainable urban transport is accelerating through a powerful synergy between Dutch technical expertise and global financial backing. Recent workshops in Bandung, Indonesia, and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia—organized through the ACTIVE program, a Dutch government initiative—demonstrate how targeted knowledge exchange can strengthen major international investments, including those of the World Bank Group (WBG).

ACTIVE: A Dutch Government Initiative Supporting Global Capacity Building

The ACTIVE program is an initiative of the Dutch government aimed at advancing active mobility worldwide. ACTIVE collaborates with a range of international partners, including but not limited to—the World Bank. In some cases, ACTIVE engages the Dutch Cycling Embassy (DCE) to deliver specialized workshops. This happened, for example, in Bandung and Ulaanbaatar, where the World Bank was also involved.

At the same time, the DCE also works directly with the World Bank Group on projects where ACTIVE is not involved. A current example is the development of a strategic cycling roadmap in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

While the World Bank provides the capital for large-scale infrastructure projects, Dutch expertise contributes the human-centered design principles needed to make those investments effective. The DCE brings the practical “DNA” of Dutch cycling culture—designing streets that prioritize people, safety, and accessibility.

This combination addresses a common challenge in emerging economies: building roads is straightforward, but creating streets that function well for all users requires a shift in mindset and skillset.

Bandung: Integrating Transit and Active Mobility

In Bandung, the ACTIVE workshop supported the World Bank–financed Indonesia Mass Transit (MASTRAN) Project. As the city expands its Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, the DCE worked with local officials to strengthen “last-mile” connections. By improving cycling and pedestrian access to bus stations, the workshop helped ensure that the World Bank’s investment in mass transit is fully leveraged through integrated, multimodal design.

Ulaanbaatar: Safety in Extreme Environments

In Ulaanbaatar, the ACTIVE workshop addressed the challenges of rapid urbanization and harsh winter conditions. As part of the Ulaanbaatar Sustainable Urban Transport Project (USUT), DCE experts trained engineers to design intersections and cycling infrastructure that remain safe and functional year-round. This ensures that WBG-funded road upgrades contribute not only to mobility but also to livability.

A Global Strategy for Change

The Dutch government—through ACTIVE—has set an ambitious goal to train 10,000 professionals worldwide in active mobility. While the DCE is sometimes involved in delivering these trainings, the initiative itself is fully owned by the Dutch government and the ACTIVE program. This ambition aligns strongly with the World Bank’s goals for sustainable, inclusive transport systems.

Specific activity of DCE collaboration with the WBG: https://dutchcycling.nl/knowledge/cycling-news/supporting-the-development-of-strategic-cycling-roadmap-in-sarajevo-bosnia-i-hercgoivina/

Additionally, the Netherlands has provided dedicated funding to the World Bank Group Global Facility to Decarbonize Transport (GFDT), further reinforcing the shared commitment to accelerating sustainable mobility worldwide.