While much of the discussion around open access focuses on scientific research, free and meaningful access to reports and data produced by governments is an important part of the picture. In the case of intergovernmental organisations in particular, there are four main benefits from open access to the works they produce: greater transparency around decision-making; support for research, jobs and growth; the moral justice of the public being able to access works for which they have paid; and the example set to national governments. Some IGOs, such as UNESCO or the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), have been leading the way with open policies. However, there’s still many IGOs whose policies are far from being open. Stephen Wyber, manager of policy and advocacy at IFLA, has done research to map existing policies on OA and IGOs. He has identified where each stands regarding open access policies. IFLA is planning to release a statement shortly, pointing out the issues and providing recommendations for next steps. IFLA will also continue advocating for open policies within IGOs. During this UNCONFERENCE session, I will briefly present some of the results from the study and will welcome discussion around ideas on the questions and challenges the topic raises, experience from participants in advocacy, and discussion around the next steps.
