The main objective of infrastructure is to support existing communities and growing populations with essential facilities, structures and services. Globally, projected investment falls far short of the amount needed to provide adequate infrastructure by 2040.1 The range is wide—covering buildings, roads and services, such as healthcare, education, energy, transport and water. Around the globe, the pandemic has given visibility to unmet needs, highlighting fault lines in the basic services and systems that all people depend on, and calling attention to underserved communities.
Timely opportunity exists to nurture new approaches to infrastructure development as society increasingly places value on diversity and inclusivity, recognizing the potential positive impact on individual wellbeing, innovation and whole communities. Indigenous perspectives offer valuable insights that can enhance the resilience and sustainability of infrastructure projects.