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 concept note outlines INASP's thinking on why we need strong and equitable national knowledge ecosystems, where diverse voices are recognized and those who commission, produce, communicate and use research and knowledge can work effectively together.