Science Without Borders: How Ukrainian Researchers Access Global Knowledge Amid War
In today’s interconnected world, scientific research by any nation depends heavily on open and swift access to global scientific resources.
During wartime, when access to information is further hampered, Ukrainian scientists actively find new ways to obtain necessary data and publications.
Before 2017, Ukrainian researchers faced the so-called ‘paywall,’ where access to international journals could cost dozens of dollars per article.
Many universities and research institutions could not afford expensive subscriptions from commercial publishers or aggregators.
However, improvements began with the Ukrainian government launching a nationwide licensing program in collaboration with international partners, granting over 500 higher education and research institutions free access to renowned databases such as Scopus and Web of Science.
This access has enabled Ukrainian scholars not only to read thousands of scientific articles but also to publish their own work in reputable international journals without financial barriers.
Moreover, in 2022, the global scientific community united in solidarity with Ukraine by opening additional free resources and supporting Ukrainian researchers during difficult times.
Major publishers like Elsevier and Clarivate introduced special initiatives, providing free access to a wide range of academic materials, lectures, and publication opportunities.
International projects like Research4Life and EIFL have also played significant roles, offering thousands of resources to researchers from low- and middle-income countries, including Ukraine.
Beyond technical support, educational initiatives such as webinars, online courses, and training sessions have been organized to help Ukrainian scientists enhance their skills and meet international publishing standards.
These efforts serve not only as technical assistance but as acts of resistance, demonstrating that science and research are vital shields for Ukraine’s future.
Despite numerous challenges, Ukrainian science remains open, innovative, and capable of growth—an essential foundation for the country’s recovery and advancement on the global scientific stage.