Open access to research is critical to global development. Development research funders' open access policies are a key tool for ensuring access. The evidence in this paper can strengthen open access policies, shaping a more equitable and effective research publishing system.
Global research, vital for economic and social progress, remains largely inaccessible due to costly paywalls and inequitable publishing models. South Africa’s 2025 G20 leadership presents an opportunity to champion transformative, inclusive reforms in research publishing.
This report draws out some of the key themes and ideas which emerged during a roundtable held in Kenya in 2016 which focused on the research and knowledge system in the Somali regions.