An International Focus Group (IFG) has been established to provide a forum in which key technical issues relating to the planning, design, construction and maintenance of rural roads can be discussed and advanced. The IFG focuses on initiatives aimed at improving the cost-effectiveness of the provision and maintenance of rural access and other low volume roads including earth, gravel and low volume paved roads. By addressing issues fundamental to the provision and maintenance of low volume rural roads and tracks that serve the accessibility needs of people living in rural areas, the groups work complements and supports poverty reduction initiatives targeted at these communities. The IFG comprises technical experts, engineers and other international figures well known in the field and representation now extends over twenty countries across Africa, Asia and South America. The IFG's primary function is to thoroughly examine technical, economic and social issues arising from and related to rural roads. It provides a focus for the improvement of opportunities for the dissemination of information, knowledge and experience. Members contribute their views and experience on various topics through presentations and discussion both of broad policy issues and detailed engineering topics. This paper sets out the aims and objectives of the group, its structure and operation and details its future vision and position within the international arena. For the covering abstract see ITRD E135448.
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