Research4Life Marks 25 Years of Expanding Access to Scientific Knowledge
The World Health Organization (WHO) is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Research4Life, a global public-private partnership created to improve access to scientific and research information in low- and middle-income countries.
Launched by WHO in 2001 as a three-year pilot, Research4Life has grown into a major international initiative reaching more than 12,000 institutions across over 120 countries. Through partnerships with more than 185 publishers and organizations, participating institutions can access more than 250,000 journals, books and databases covering health and other areas of research.
According to WHO, Research4Life has helped strengthen research capacity, increase scientific publishing and participation in international clinical trials, and expand opportunities for women researchers. The initiative has also evolved beyond providing access to publications, offering training, publishing support and opportunities for researchers to participate more fully in the global scientific community.
Looking ahead, Research4Life’s 2030 Strategy aims to address remaining barriers to research equity, including the costs researchers may face when trying to publish and share their work.
