The Data Strategy includes over 240 measures to enhance data accessibility, interoperability, and security. It is implemented at both federal and state levels. Germany’s policy is not limited to publications but also emphasises open access to research data. The German Research Foundation (DFG) plays a key role in promoting open data, encouraging researchers to make their data publicly available when possible. The goal is to make research data findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR principles). It comprehensively promotes open access to research publications (primarily through Green Open Access, with support for Golden Open Access through APC funding) and open access to research data (promoted through the NFDI and aligned with the FAIR principles). The NFDI (National Research Data Infrastructure) is a collaborative, decentralized initiative that brings together various scientific disciplines, institutions, and stakeholders across Germany.
Data Strategy of the Federal Government
Abstract
Country | Germany |
Start date | 2021 |
Annual Budget | n/a |
Responsible organisation(s) | Ministry |
Target group(s) | The strategy targets citizens, businesses, researchers, and public authorities |
Policy instrument type | This is a strategic framework designed to guide data policy and practices |
Developed through a participatory process involving an online survey with over 1,200 respondents, the strategy aligns with European values and principles of data protection. The federal government has established a framework for open access, with the amendment of the Copyright Act (UrhG) in 2013 creating the legal basis for green open access through an inalienable right of self-archiving.
To harness the opportunities offered by data to drive social progress, sustainable growth, and innovation while ensuring data protection and sovereignty
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