What's Happening?
The World Mining Congress 2026, scheduled to take place in Lima, Peru, from June 24 to 26, 2026, has announced Bent Flyvbjerg as a keynote speaker. Flyvbjerg, an Emeritus Professor at the Saïd Business
School of the University of Oxford and Chair and Co-Founder of Oxford Global Projects, is recognized as a leading authority on megaproject management. His participation is expected to provide valuable insights into the complexities of managing large-scale projects, which are increasingly significant in the global mining sector. Flyvbjerg's expertise is particularly relevant as the industry faces challenges related to project complexity, cost, and urgency. His book, 'How Big Things Get Done,' co-authored with Dan Gardner, explores the factors that contribute to the success or failure of major projects.
Why It's Important?
Flyvbjerg's involvement in the World Mining Congress 2026 is significant due to the growing importance of effective megaproject management in the mining industry. As global infrastructure spending is projected to reach $3.4 trillion annually through 2030, the ability to plan and execute large projects efficiently is crucial. Flyvbjerg's insights could help industry leaders avoid costly mistakes and optimize project outcomes, potentially impacting national economies. His emphasis on reducing delays, managing risks, and designing robust projects aligns with the industry's need to adapt to increasing demands and complexities.
What's Next?
During the congress, Flyvbjerg will lead a plenary session focused on the science of making large projects successful. This session will address strategies for reducing delays, managing risks, and designing projects effectively from the outset. The insights shared could influence future project planning and execution in the mining sector, encouraging more sustainable and efficient practices. Stakeholders in the industry may look to implement these strategies to enhance project success rates and minimize economic impacts.
Beyond the Headlines
The participation of a megaproject expert like Flyvbjerg highlights the broader implications of project management in the mining industry. As projects grow in scale and complexity, the need for innovative approaches to planning and execution becomes more pressing. Flyvbjerg's focus on the science of project management could lead to a paradigm shift in how large-scale projects are approached, potentially setting new standards for the industry. This could also influence other sectors that rely on megaprojects, such as oil and gas, defense, and aerospace.
