2.1 Introduction

This chapter discusses important new global directions in road safety for low, middle and high-income countries. It charts the establishment of road traffic injury prevention as an international development priority; the adoption of a global target, plan and agreement on the urgent need to scale-up investment in road safety. The paradigm shift to the Safe System is explored further and its promotion by key international development organisations to all countries is noted. Finally, this chapter notes the emphasis in international development being given to encouraging governmental leadership and building the necessary management capacity in order to achieve improved road safety outcomes.