Key research themes
1. How does the political and social context shape infrastructure governance and influence power dynamics?
This theme investigates how infrastructure projects and systems act as arenas of political power, social contestation, and governance strategies. It highlights the complex interrelations between state authorities, marginalized communities, and socio-technical assemblages, revealing infrastructure as both an instrument of control and a site of resistance. Understanding these dynamics matters for formulating infrastructure governance that accounts for equity, inclusion, and the reproduction of social hierarchies.
2. What governance frameworks and evaluation methodologies ensure effective and accountable regulation in infrastructure sectors?
This theme addresses the design, operation, and evaluation of regulatory systems that govern infrastructure industries. It explores institutional autonomy, accountability, procedural clarity, and the roles of multi-level regulatory actors in shaping regulatory credibility and sector performance. These insights are essential to establish governance frameworks that balance independent enforcement with political legitimacy and responsiveness.
3. How can corruption risks be identified and mitigated across the lifecycle phases of infrastructure development?
This research area focuses on mapping the opportunities for corrupt practices at distinct phases of infrastructure project development and proposing targeted mitigation strategies. By framing corruption propensity within the infrastructure lifecycle, it seeks actionable interventions to enhance transparency, accountability, and governance in infrastructure procurement and execution, especially critical given infrastructure’s role in socioeconomic development.