Accelerating the uptake of the Barcelona Declaration's principles: the catalyst role of networks in the emergence of change and influencing policy agenda setting

Coimbra Group strongly supports the movement towards open research information with the stated objective to be at the forefront of this cultural transformation. We will bring to the other signatories of the Barcelona Declaration the variety of perspectives and the expertise available in our network of leading European comprehensive universities established across 22 countries and the pioneering role played by some of them. It is central for Coimbra Group to stress that transitions in how research information is provided must respect the equal importance of all disciplines, including the Social Sciences, Humanities and the Arts. This transition also contributes to advance the agenda towards more open and transparent University rankings. Coimbra Group will continue raising awareness among its members of the importance of open research information and actively promoting dialogue on this important topic. Coimbra Group shall gently nudge its communities by engaging both the management level and the academics and administrative staff active through its thematic Working Groups and by offering its trustful collaborative environment for mutual learning and exchange of experience. Coimbra Group already initiated a dialogue with the rectors of its 40 member universities on the concrete implications of institutional commitments in Open Science and open research Information, tackling among others what this means in terms of committing resources, of regulations and of change management. The number of Coimbra Group Universities that have already signed the Barcelona Declaration illustrates the network capacity to convince and mobilize the leadership of institutions of high international standard. Coimbra Group will also build on its advocacy expertise and capacity to influence the European institutions to shape policy changes in this area.