Open Access around the world is a movement that aims to make scientific research and data accessible to everyone.
Simply put, some of the goals of Open Access are:
- Availability and reusability of scientific research for the public;
- Accessibility and transparency of scientific communication;
- Facilitating scientific collaboration;
- Transparency for the methodology, observation, and collection of data.
Additionally, Open Access around the world helps to boost the capabilities of interdisciplinary research. This is key for tackling the most pressing global issues, like climate change. By eliminating the barriers to accessing and producing research, Open Access is helping to ensure that scientific research can reach its potential.
Open Access and countries around the world
How is Open Access around the world handled? Let’s take a look.
China
Open Access in China continues to grow at a rapid pace. This growth can be attributed to the State’s commitment to research and development and policy “requiring the promotion of open science”. Current laws outline the need for consistency and cooperation across research. Accordingly, the State will be establishing consistent policies across government agencies, especially those related to Open Access, as it pursues “self-reliance”.
European Union
A key part of the EU’s research and innovation strategy revolves around Open Access. Horizon Europe and Plan S are the main components of Open Access in the EU. Firstly, Horizon Europe is a funding programme that aims to encourage collaboration whilst tackling global challenges. Open Access is mandatory for all researchers who receive funding. Plan S, on the other hand, helps to streamline Open Access policy by providing ten guiding principles around copyright, transparency, and criteria, among other things. In 2021, it mandated that all funded research be made Open Access.
United States of America
Since 2011, the percentage of articles written in subscription-only journals has declined in the USA. Open Access in the USA has continued to grow. This growth skyrocketed with the USA government mandating that all US-funded research must be made Open Access by the end of 2025. This reflects the country’s aims to accelerate scientific discovery and lower the barriers of access for all.
