A framework for implementing open-by‑default with federal government science

Abstract

The "ramework for Implementing Open-by-Default with Federal Government Science provides comprehensive guidance on managing the balance between openness and the protection of sensitive information. It outlines specific criteria and considerations to ensure that enhancing access to research data does not compromise privacy, security, or ethical standards.

The framework emphasizes assessing the appropriate degree of openness by balancing the benefits of transparency against potential risks. This includes evaluating the implications for privacy, security, and ethical considerations. The framework advocates for thorough risk assessments to determine when restricting access is justified. This process involves evaluating potential harms and implementing mitigation strategies to manage identified risks. it aligns with broader government policies that promote openness and accountability, suggesting that stakeholders should be informed when incidents affect their rights and interests.

It identifies specific issues that may warrant exceptions to open access, such as:

- Personal information, including health information.

- Confidential business information, safeguarding proprietary data of third parties.

- Security concerns, addressing risks related to hazardous materials, dual-use research, and national security.

- Indigenous knowledge, expecting the rights and interests of Indigenous communities.

Each category includes detailed considerations to guide decisions on restricting access.

Overview

Country	Canada
Start date	2021
Annual Budget	n/a
Responsible organisation(s)	Government agency
Target group(s)	Established researchers|Higher education institutes|National government|Public research institutes
Policy instrument type	Strategies, agendas and plans

Background

This document was developed in response to the need for common guidance in the application of the Roadmap for Open Science.

Objective(s)

To support scientists with the timely release of federal research outputs, either conducted or funded by the organization, while presenting criteria on how to manage privacy, security, ethical considerations and appropriate intellectual property protection.

To ensure that the principles of open science are upheld without compromising privacy, security, or ethical standards.

Public access URL

https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/063.nsf/eng/h_98201.html

All tags

• Data governance for trust
• Canada
• 2021
• Government agency
• Established researchers
• Higher education institutes
• National government
• Public research institutes
• Strategies, agendas and plans
• Risk management and mitigation

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