Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, is a humanitarian organisation that has been providing medical care in more than 75 countries. Alongside it’s frontline humanitarian work, MSF plays an important role in advancing research and discussion in global health.
Every year, MSF Scientifics Days bring together those interested in global and humanitarian health. MSF describes them as “conferences without borders” creating a space for healthcare professionals, researchers, humanitarian workers and policy makers to gather and have meaningful discussions about the work of MSF.
At this year’s conference, some of us at BMC in London had the opportunity to attend sessions and engage with a wide range of global health discussions, highlighting topics such as malnutrition and trauma care in Gaza, malaria vaccines, novel snakebite antivenoms in Ethiopia, maternal healthcare in Pakistan and Sudan, and new approaches for HIV care.
Beyond the scientific and clinical presentations, MSF hosted a panel discussion on medical ethics and how MSF’s research is used. Although a variety of topics were discussed, a common theme emerged throughout: the importance of open access research in supporting frontline healthcare workers responding to crises around the world.
The Importance of Open Access in Humanitarian Health
Open Access is a publishing model which makes research accessible to all, with no subscription fees and no institutional barriers, meaning articles are freely available to anyone anywhere, not just scientists with a Journal subscription. Open Access research allows for collaboration and dissemination of medical data and information, all of which is vital in the context of humanitarian crises, epidemics, natural disasters, and healthcare in conflict settings.
MSF not only advocates for open access publishing, but it also champions open access research; all studies conducted by MFS Operational centres, are openly accessible on their Research Management and Impact Tool (ReMIT). “ReMIT is open access to improve transparency and accountability of MSF research”. Additionally, MSF has their own digital library called MSF Science Portal, where thousands of articles and conference materials relating to MSF’s work are all openly accessible online.
Removing Barriers in Open Access Publishing
Open Access publishing is typically supported through an Article Processing Charge (APC), which helps to cover the costs associated with publishing the article, including production, integrity and long-term accessibility. While the open access model increases accessibility for readers, it can present a financial barrier for some authors, particularly in low- and middle-income countries – and several publishing companies provide assistance to help overcome these barriers.
As the first commercial open access publisher, founded in 2000, BMC recognises the importance of supporting equitable participation in publishing. BMC offers waivers and discounts for eligible authors and has established open access agreements with institutions around the world to support broader participation in research publishing.
Alongside these efforts, Springer Nature also supports wider initiatives focused on improving the visibility, accessibility and impact of global research:
The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Programme:
Springer Nature’s SDG Programme, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, aims to connect researchers working on the most difficult challenges with policy makers who can help us shape and improve the world. Covering topics across all 17 SDGs, the programme highlights research related to poverty, hunger, healthcare, sanitation, education, and many more.
Research Communities by Springer Nature:
Research Communities by Springer Nature, an online platform that encourages discussion, collaboration and discovery across global research communities. Through sharing Behind the Paper blogs and keeping up with News and Opinion content, the Research Communities not only provides researchers with the opportunity to connect with others in their field but also engage with wider conversations and perspectives.
BugBitten:
Launched in 2013, BugBitten is a blog for the parasitology, vector biology and global health community, providing a key space for researchers to share personal stories, discuss emerging topics and highlight developments across infectious disease research. A recent post celebrates the 230th anniversary of the first vaccine.
If you are interested in writing a contribution about your research visit the page or get in touch with the team.
Conclusion:
Open access is not just a publishing model, but a powerful tool for equity, enabling critical research to reach those who need it most without barriers. Médecins Sans Frontières’ work deserves to be known widely, as it can have real-world impact in global health. By continuing to support inclusive and accessible publishing practices, the research community can help work towards a more informed and equitable future.