Introduction

In the search for solutions for what seem like intractable problems, policymakers have begun to focus on the role of social infrastructure as an ingredient in the policy mix. Infrastructure provides the framework for social and economic development. It can be economic or social, hard or soft, tangible or intangible: it is relational. Social infrastructure has begun to appear in policy repertoires in several countries. Depletions or deficiencies in physical, human, intangible, financial, social or institutional capitals can have knock-on effects to the other capitals in a self-enforcing, vicious spiral of low income and weak growth. The White Paper demonstrates little grasp of the factors behind the making, unmaking and remaking of social infrastructure and the role it plays in communities: hanging baskets are unlikely to be the answer. The chapter also presents an overview on the key concepts discussed in this book.