The recent response of the scientific community to the COVID-19 pandemic was a real game-changer for science around the world. It beautifully demonstrated how important it can be to publish key research results quickly and openly. All of this started when the genetic sequence of this new virus was uploaded to an open access repository, for all researchers to work with. From that moment, even the for profit publishing giants believed it is necessary to make every information regarding this topic freely available for the scientific community to solve the crisis. This kind of collaboration could not have been witnessed before.
But one thing is still missing. Something that could build a legit system around open science. We already know about some national and regional initiatives that aim to coordinate science in an open and fair way, but it does not seem to be enough. These initiatives all have their own vision aiming for something similar but choosing different methods.
What we need is an international framework for OS
UNESCO, as the United Nations Agency is in the position to create a set of principles around open science and act as an international framework while making sure the policy stays in place. UNESCO is a global organization being able to build a comprehensive vision for OS, which may be the reason why 193 Member States asked the consortium to develop a framework setting standards around Open Science internationally.
The organization started working on the task right away. They are beginning a series of regional consultations on the topic with the goal to reach a global consensus on Open Science. During these multi-stakeholder meetings they expect inputs from:
- Eastern European Scientists,
- science funders,
- policy makers,
- innovators,
- publishers,
- and others involved.
The first consultation entitled Regional Consultation on Open Science for East Europe will be held on Zoom on 24 September from 10 am to 1pm (CEST).
Register here for the event.
What to expect?
The online session will begin with an introduction of the UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science which will be followed by a Panel Discussion from three key perspectives:
- Policy
- Science
- The engagement with Society
Before closing and talking about the conclusions, there will be plenty of time for an open discussion regarding the issue. Naturally, the meeting results will be shared with the attendees afterward in a form of report. Participants will be invited to provide further written inputs on the draft report within one week. The final report will be available on UNESCO Open Science website.
For more information check out: UNESCO Recommendation for Open Science and UNESCO Regional Consultations.