Open Science Horizon: UNESCO’s Recommendation

• February 5, 2024

The UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science stands as a beacon, illuminating the path toward enhanced collaboration, accessibility, and quality in scientific endeavors. Adopted in November 2021, this Recommendation underscores the pivotal role of open science in bridging global gaps in science, technology, and innovation. As of September 2023, Member States have embarked on a collective journey to implement and uphold the principles of open science.

Implementation Blueprint:

At the heart of this initiative lies an implementation strategy crafted by the UNESCO Secretariat. This strategy aims to guide Member States, mobilizing partners and open science enthusiasts worldwide. Shared on April 28, 2022, the strategy is a roadmap designed to realize the key objectives outlined in the Recommendation. It is a call to action at every level, from local communities to international collaborations.

Working Together: Open Science Working Groups:

UNESCO has convened five specialized working groups, each focused on key impact areas. These groups bring together experts, organizations, and institutions to delve into specific aspects of open science. Whether it’s capacity building, policy formulation, funding mechanisms, infrastructures, or establishing monitoring frameworks, these working groups are the engines driving the practical implementation of open science principles.

• Working Group on Open Science Capacity Building
• Working Group on Open Science Policies and Policy Instruments
• Working Group on Open Science Funding and Incentives
• Working Group on Open Science Infrastructures
• Working Group on Open Science Monitoring Framework

You can actively contribute to these groups by participating in upcoming meetings or expressing your interest via openscience@unesco.org.

Guidance and Oversight: Open Science Steering Committee:

Ensuring strategic guidance and oversight, the UNESCO Global Open Science Steering Committee plays a crucial role in the implementation process. Convened by the UNESCO Director-General, this committee identifies opportunities and challenges, offering guidance on progress across different regions and by various open science actors. Reports from committee meetings provide a transparent view of the ongoing efforts and accomplishments.

Intersectoral Collaboration: Open Science Task Team:

An interdivisional and intersectoral Task Team on Open Science contributes essential oversight and guidance, reflecting diverse perspectives and contributions from UNESCO’s various sectors. With expertise spanning education, culture, social and human sciences, communication, and information, this task team ensures a comprehensive approach to the implementation of open science principles.

Implementing UNESCO’s Open Science Recommendation

UNESCO’s commitment to open science is not just a recommendation; it’s a collective endeavor to reshape the future of scientific exploration. As Member States work towards integrating open science into their scientific cultures, the journey is marked by collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared vision for a more accessible and impactful scientific landscape. Open science is not just a policy; it’s a movement that invites everyone to contribute, learn, and innovate for the betterment of global knowledge.

More details at UNESCO