Sovereignty over an area is generally provided by the presence of people, communities, and a governance structure and support infrastructure. Sovereignty can be compromised if one or more of these elements are missing.

Sovereignty and security is dependent upon the communities and the transportation infrastructure that supports them. Current infrastructure in northern and remote areas is inadequate to respond to environmental emergencies, natural disasters, non-environmental accidents and increasing threats to Canada's sovereignty. With the opening up of polar air routes and the resulting increase in overflights, there is a greater possibility of emergency situations. The potential for increased international shipping through the Northwest Passage is another emerging threat. Investing in northern and remote transportation infrastructure will help ensure the presence of people and communities. This investment will compliment Canada's efforts to demonstrate sovereignty, and will increase support for responding to emergencies in northern and remote areas.