Abstract:
Changing geopolitical landscapes and technological advances have driven the emergence of new national and international frameworks for research security. These frameworks are often founded on common principles, wherein appropriate and risk-targeted measures should enhance—and not hinder—the foundations of academic freedom, open science, transparency, integrity, and reciprocity which are essential to international collaboration. However, it can be challenging for researchers to navigate the distinct policies and guidelines of different countries. Through this interactive panel discussion, panelists will spotlight different national frameworks, share key challenges and emerging best practices, and discuss opportunities for further global alignment on research security.

Summary of Conversations

The panel addressed global alignment on research security, emphasizing international cooperation while safeguarding research integrity. Discussions highlighted shared responsibility among governments, funding agencies, research institutions, and researchers. Key principles included risk proportionality, academic freedom, and avoidance of discrimination. Participants examined frameworks in Canada, the UK, Japan, and Sweden, focusing on policy implementation, transparency, and community engagement. Emphasis was put on balancing openness with security, streamlining processes, and promoting responsible internationalization. The dialogue also covered challenges like identifying potential risks, resource allocation, and ensuring stakeholder understanding, with an overarching goal of fostering trust and collaboration.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of Challenges

• Maintaining a balance between open science and necessary security measures is a continuous challenge. 
• Ensuring measures are proportionate to risk, well-understood, and implementable remains a key consideration. 
• The need for increased awareness and engagement at the researcher level is critical for fostering a research security culture. 
• Navigating varying national regulations and compliance requirements adds complexity to international collaborations. 
• Addressing potential biases and ensuring equity in research security practices requires ongoing attention. 
• Securing adequate resources for research security initiatives, including training and staff support, is a persistent obstacle. 
• Identifying and mitigating potential risks effectively, especially in projects with sensitive technologies, is a complex task. 
• The risk of researchers avoiding international collaborations due to increased bureaucracy and security concerns needs to be mitigated.

Recommendations/Next Steps

• Promote global dialogue to include underrepresented voices, particularly from the Global South and industry. 
• Develop a global code of conduct for international research cooperation to streamline processes and build trust. 
• Focus on supporting researchers through toolkits, clear contact points, and accessible information to manage risks effectively. 
• Encourage reciprocity in recognizing research security procedures across countries to reduce bureaucratic burdens. 
• Acknowledge and address the costs and frictions associated with international collaborations to ensure sustainable engagement. 
• Emphasize the importance of international collaboration for fostering international understanding and science diplomacy. 
• Foster transparency and knowledge sharing to promote best practices. • Explore data management plans to safeguard and manage the integrity of research data.