Open Access Government April 2025

April 4, 2025

We welcome Spring 2025 with a thought-provoking edition featuring policy and research insights from experts, government officials, and respected organisations.

This exciting edition includes special sections on healthy ageing, women’s health, oncology, mental health, research and innovation, digital transformation, environment, transportation, and energy, among many other insightful topics

As we increasingly rely on digital solutions to address challenges across various sectors, it is evident that this growing adoption must be paired with suitable and ongoing engagement and education.

Digital inclusivity is crucial for bridging gaps in care delivery, and we explore this theme with an article in our opening Health and Social Care section discussing a study on how Māori communities utilised digital healthcare technology during COVID-19.

Elsewhere in our health sections, we focus on the prevalence, prevention, and treatment of chronic conditions, comprising articles from the American Optometric Association, British Association of Clinicians in ME/CFS, World Cancer Research Fund International and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction.

January 2025 was the warmest month since records began. In our section on Environment and Health, contributors, including the Canadian Public Health Association and the UN Environment Programme, examine the myriad ways the climate crisis is impacting our health, from the effects of air pollution to pharmaceutical and food waste.

Our Research and Innovation section begins with an article by Dr Ana Persic from UNESCO, who examines UNESCO’s recommendations regarding open science. Following this, Jan Palmowski from The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities emphasises the importance of identifying comparative advantages as the EU develops a new research and innovation programme in response to Donald Trump’s focus on AI.

You will also find insightful pieces on the themes of materials science, education, philosophy, and culture.

Find more highlights from our April edition below, and we hope you enjoy the diverse and insightful content.

Air and water pollution: A public health concern requiring proactive measures

Ian Culbert, Executive Director of the Canadian Public Health Association, discusses the
health effects of air and water pollution and steps needed to mitigate their impact

The power of demography for Europe’s future

Christa Schweng, EESC Member, Rapporteur for the EESC opinion on The impact of demography on Social Europe, argues that demography has the power to determine Europe’s future

Building a digital twin of the heart

The team at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) shares how
technology is supporting the advancement of precision medicine research and
patient care by building a digital twin of the heart

Analysing the UK’s artificial intelligence policy

Dr Paul Sant, Head of Computer Science at the University of Law, analyses in detail the UK’s artificial intelligence policy

Philosophy: The art of asking the right questions

Laurent Bibard, Professor at ESSEC Business School, states that philosophy is a skill that helps solve problems and comments on knowing how to rediscover our skills and asking the right questions about our future priorities

The Finnish connection: Regional efforts to protect the Baltic Sea

Rüdiger Strempel, Executive Secretary of HELCOM, reflects on Finland’s
special connection with HELCOM and the organisation’s regional efforts to
protect the Baltic Sea

A path out of the finance curse? Lessons for the developing economies

Dr Anastasia Nesvetailova, Head of Macroeconomic and Development Policies Branch
at UNCTAD examines the financial challenges facing developing economies today

Explaining open frameworks and their opportunities for the public sector

Crown Commercial Service provides an explanation of open frameworks
and the opportunities they present for the public sector

Backed by the UN, governments are breaking down antimicrobial resistance

Jacqueline Alvarez, Chief of the Chemicals and Health Branch at the UN
Environment Programme (UNEP) explores the importance of holistic, One
Health efforts to mitigate the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance

How research informs policy

Dr Martin Lukavec, Senior Lecturer at the London School of Business and Finance,
discusses how research informs policy, illustrated by the examples of randomised
trials, behavioural economics and economic incentives

Open Access Government January 2025

January 10, 2025

We welcome 2025 with a thought-provoking edition that includes policy and research insights from experts, government officials, and various esteemed organisations.

This exciting edition includes special sections on communicable diseases, ageing, cancer, mental health, research and innovation, digital transformation, environment, and energy, among many others

In our health sections, Sarah Kabbani and Michael Craig from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention share their efforts in antibiotic stewardship. Don’t miss Lorna Rothery’s interview with Dr. John Glod from the National Cancer Institute, exploring challenges in childhood cancer treatment.

Jan Palmowski from The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities examines research and innovation themes for Europe’s recovery. From the Crown Commercial Service (CCS), Kristen Green emphasises the importance of carbon reduction plans for public sector suppliers and offers guidance for SMEs.

Dr. Susan Gardner from UNEP highlights messages from the world’s largest coral reef, while Patricia Kameri-Mbote discusses air pollution challenges in Africa’s megacities. RJ Sigurdson, Alberta’s Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, outlines priorities for supporting the province’s agriculture. Lastly, Ana Drăguțescu from ICLEI Europe addresses sustainable mobility challenges in urban areas.

Here are more highlights from our January 2025 edition. We are confident that you will find the following pieces exciting and informative.

Rare diseases and health equity

Rare Diseases International, whose community engages with the World Health Organization, examines rare diseases and health equity, emphasising shifting the paradigm through global action

Widespread soil management strategies adopted for higher profits and resilience

Dr Stephen Davies and Chris Gazey from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Government of Western Australia, explain how grain growers achieve higher profits and resilience through the widespread adoption of soil management strategies

Towards better health of Indigenous Peoples

Indigenous populations encounter numerous challenges in exercising their right
to health. Lorna Rothery discussed the importance of collaborative and culturally
sensitive approaches with Dr Sandra Del Pino, Advisor on Cultural Diversity at PAHO

Creating your carbon reduction plan: Five top tips for SMEs

Kristen Green, Head of Sustainability at Crown Commercial Service (CCS), explains the
importance of carbon reduction plans for public sector suppliers and how SMEs can simplify
the process of creating and maintaining one

Cancer and antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

Infections are the second leading cause of death in cancer patients after cancer itself; Zisis Kozlakidis and Shalini Jayasekar Zurn discuss the challenges surrounding the interplay between cancer and AMR

Data science examined: AI and data in detail

Dr Clare Walsh, Director of Education at the Institute of Analytics, highlights data
science in a discussion that also includes comments on artificial intelligence (AI)

Innovating food security: Wrocław shapes a resilient food future

Jakub Mazur, Deputy Mayor of Wrocław, Poland, and a member of ICLEI Europe’s Regional Executive Committee, discusses innovative food security policies, including how Wrocław is shaping a resilient future through food

Immune function, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease

Inflammation can exacerbate risks for cardiovascular disease — and is informing new approaches to treatment

Measuring gravitational waves

Measuring gravitational waves is detailed here by the European Space Agency

Enhancing UK classrooms by using AI in education

Dr Robert Harrison, the Director of Education and Integrated Technology at ACS International Schools, addresses the potential for enhancing classrooms across the UK through the integration of AI in education

Open Access Government October 2024

October 3, 2024

It’s time to welcome Autumn with our October edition of Open Access Government. In it, you’ll find expert commentary and insights from global political, industry and academic figures. This informative issue discusses how health systems can adapt to our changing world, including digital infrastructure, ageing populations, and environmental sustainability.

Additionally, the Research and Innovation sections feature an article from the UK Space Agency on the critical role of space technology in various sectors.

In our Environment section, Charlina Vitcheva, DG MARE Director General, emphasizes the EU’s priority of protecting the ocean and addressing climate change. Plus, Teppo Säkkinen from EESC provides insights into the EU’s transition to a greener economy.

Below are more highlights from our packed-to-the-brim October edition. We are confident that you will find the following pieces as exciting and informative as we have in their compilation.

Tackling AMR and medicine shortages in the EU

How can the EU’s pharmaceutical legislation help tackle current challenges, including medicine shortages and antimicrobial resistance, across Europe? We put the question to Rainer Becker, Director for Medical Products and Innovation at DG SANTE

Science and research: Agriculture and agrifood system

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation,
Science and Industry, outlines the country’s agriculture and agrifood system to
demonstrate its scientific and research advancements

Addressing access to healthcare for under-served communities

The World Health Organization (WHO) is actively working to improve access to healthcare for under-served communities, targeting low-income, rural, and marginalized populations. Zisis Kozlakidis and Debra Leiolani Garcia provide an overview of these initiatives

The European Commission’s education policies

In this interview, Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen, Director General of the Directorate-General
for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport at the European Commission, explains the
pivotal role of the organisation in formulating and executing education policies that
shape the future, and much more

Supporting healthy eating for children and optimal nutrition

Lorna Rothery spoke to Dr Julianne Williams, WHO/Europe Technical Officer, Special
Initiative for NCDs and Innovation (SNI), about some of the key barriers to healthy eating
for children and what can be done to support optimal nutrition, especially in schools

Global development and gender equality

Papa Alioune Seck, Chief of the Research and Data Section at UN Women, explores a crucial moment for global development and gender equality

AI governance: Ensuring artificial intelligence is a force for good

Seizo Onoe, Director, Standardization Bureau, International Telecommunication
Union (ITU), highlights the importance of AI governance, discussing the reasons
behind ensuring it benefits society positively

Less talk, more action on vaccine nationalism

Dr Ayoade Alakija, Humanitarian Leader, WHO Special Envoy for the ACT-Accelerator,
Chair of FIND and Co-Chair of the G7 Impact Investment Initiative on Global Health
outlines the negative effects of vaccine nationalism and emphasizes the importance
of countries collaborating to enhance preparedness and response capabilities in the
the face of public health threats

Canadian farming: Feeding the world sustainably in a changing climate

Here, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Canada’s Minister of Agriculture
and Agri-Food, says free trade and cutting-edge innovation can help
Canada’s agriculture sector in a changing climate

CCS market engagement: Public sector needs a variety of suppliers

Lucy McCormack, Technology Commercial Lead from CCS, explains how small
and medium-sized enterprises can get the most out of CCS market engagement
and customer intelligence to help them bid for public sector contracts

Open Access Government July 2024

July 5, 2024

We celebrate the arrival of summer with our captivating Open Access Government July 2024 digital edition, filled with insights from political representatives, thought leaders, industry associations, and subject experts.

Read expert health and social care commentary from Sandra Gallina, the Director General of the European Commission’s DG Sante, who sheds light on how the European Commission addresses a significant health challenge of 36 million individuals in the EU living with a rare disease. We also welcome Prof Dr Paul De Raeve, the Secretary General of the European Federation of Nurses Associations, who presents the essential policy measures needed to address the ongoing nursing workforce shortage in the EU.

Our Diseases and Conditions focus includes insights from Dr. Jane M. Barratt, Global Advisor at the International Federation on Ageing, who spoke with our Publication Editor, Lorna Rothery, about healthy population ageing and the importance of combating ageism and creating age-friendly environments.

Further in, Ole Petter Ottersen, Secretary-General at The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities, points out that Europe is at a critical juncture in research and innovation investments and is developing a new framework program to enhance research excellence.

You may also want to read the article by Florika Fink-Hooijer, Director-General of the Directorate-General for Environment at the European Commission. She details Europe’s progress and future in transitioning to a more sustainable circular economy.

Below are more highlights from our packed-to-the-brim July edition.

Navigating healthcare inequities and addressing the health disparities of Indigenous Peoples

Geoffrey Roth, Expert Member of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII), discusses efforts to recognize and tackle health challenges that Indigenous Peoples face

The regulation of sports betting advertising in Canada

Senator Marty Deacon from the Senate of Canada guides us through Bill S-269, National Framework on Advertising for Sports Betting Act

Navigating the impact of COVID-19 on childhood vaccinations

Anne Pham-Huy and Antonella Pucci from Immunize Canada discuss
the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on routine vaccinations for children

The tip of the iceberg: Unlocking billions by fighting fraud and error

The UK National Audit Office is renewing its focus on helping the government
deliver value for money by preventing fraud and error – potentially saving
billions for the UK taxpayer

Lung cancer in Southeast Asia and China: Current trends and challenges

Zisis Kozlakidis from the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Cancer
and Jiaao Yu from Shanghai Jiao Tong University discuss the burden of lung cancer
in Southeast Asia and China and the priorities for therapies and interventions

Policy priorities for education in Saskatchewan, Canada

Clint Repski, Deputy Minister of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education,
outlines the policy priorities for education in Saskatchewan, with a particular
focus on literacy and funding

What the Procurement Act 2023 means for CCS

Crown Commercial Service (CCS) guides us through the new regime for the UK
procurement, including what the Procurement Act 2023 means to them

A democratic, sustainable and resilient future with the EU Green Deal

Wolfgang Teubner, ICLEI Regional Director for Europe and the Managing Director (CEO)
of the ICLEI European Secretariat, shares with us the importance of making use of our
multilevel system for a democratic, sustainable and resilient future with the EU Green Deal

Driving innovation: Japan’s approach to ICT R&D and building a resilient society

Dr Preethi Kesavan, Director of Studies, Head and School of Advanced Technology
and Digital Media at London School of Business and Finance Singapore, charts
Japan’s approach to ICT R&D and building a resilient society

Tackling transport emissions in the UK

Richard Hebditch, UK Director of the European Federation for Transport and
Environment (Transport & Environment), details what needs to be done to
tackle transport emissions in the UK

Open Access Government April 2024

April 8, 2024

We usher in the Spring with our enticing April 2024 digital edition, crammed with insights from political representatives, thought leaders, industry associations and subject experts

Read expert health and social care commentary from the likes of Dr. Marc Robin, Medical Director at Dialogue, who considers how technology can support Canada’s efforts to meet the country’s mental health needs. Dr Farzana Rahman also shares her views on this matter as she considers implementing AI tools to mitigate the current workforce crisis in radiology.

Our Diseases and Conditions section features a dynamic array of contributors, including Professors Ruth Plummer and Jaap Verweij from the Cancer Drug Development Forum, Dr Steven Cox, CEO of Cardiac Risk in the Young, and Steph Sherer, Founder and President of Americans for Safe Access.

In the publication, Goksen Sahin , Senior Advocacy Expert for Strategic Communications, Membership and Advocacy at ICLEI Europe, considers the need for multilevel governance to implement COP28 outcomes across the EU.

In addition to our sections on energy, finance, the environment and education, we feature compelling pieces on animal welfare. Born Free’s Chris Lewis and Dr Mark Jones outline the ethical and legal implications of keeping primates as pets, and animal protection NGO Cruelty Free International tells us about its manifesto to phase out animal testing.

More highlights from our April edition can be found below. We hope you find the content as exciting and insightful as we have in its collation.

Building a resilient and future-ready democracy in the EU

Dubravka Šuica, Vice-President for Democracy and Demography, charts her priorities for building a resilient and future-ready democracy in the EU

WHO’s framework on self-care interventions

Zisis Kozlakidis from the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer and Wuchlim Kourk from the Institut Pasteur du Cambodge examine the value and implementation of self-care interventions

Prisons after COVID-19: A prison chaplain’s view

IPCA Worldwide President David Buick shares the prison chaplain’s perspective on changes after the COVID-19 pandemic

Revolutionising NHS transport infrastructure towards net zero

Anjub Ali, Senior Construction Specialist at NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS), explains revolutionising NHS transport infrastructure for a sustainable future in the drive towards net zero

Technology Products and Associated Services 2 (TePAS 2) agreement update

Crown Commercial Service lifts the lid on simplified and more sustainable technology solutions, using the Technology Products and Associated Services 2 (TePAS 2) agreement as an example

Towards a European strategy for older persons

Miguel Ángel Cabra de Luna, EESC member from the Civil Society Organisations’ Group,
explains what must happen towards a European strategy for older persons

U.S. seafood industry: Science-based fishery management

Colleen Coyne, Seafood Program Coordinator at Food Export USA-Northeast, discusses how science-based conservation methods are guiding the U.S. seafood industry to foster responsible fishery management

UKAEA implementing the UK’s fusion energy strategy

Find out in this interview how the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) implements the UK’s fusion energy strategy

AI and adaptive dementia-supporting technology

People living with dementia are a hugely underserved group in so many ways, but dementia-supporting technology can offer better and longer independent living; Fiona Carragher, Director of Research and Influencing at Alzheimer’s Society, explains how

Preventing Koala extinction in Australia

Dr Stuart Blanch from WWF-Australia, calls attention to the risk of koala extinction on Australia’s east coast by 2050 and sheds light on what can be done to save this iconic species

Open Access Government January 2024

January 8, 2024

We wish you a wonderful New Year with our exciting January 2024 digital edition, full of insights from political representatives, thought leaders, industry associations and specialists

Read expert commentary from the likes of Sandra Gallina, who charts the European Commission’s efforts to support healthy ageing and EESC’s Baiba Miltoviča, who lifts the lid on rare diseases, charting a European mission to help 36 million people in the EU.

Our conversations about policy don’t just revolve around health. We also pay attention to many other areas of research. For instance, Revd Professor David Wilkinson, Astrophysicist at Durham University, highlights the importance of space and the divine. Or Rohan Whitehead from the Institute of Analytics, walks us through how AI revolutionises the finance industry

In this New Year edition, our top contributors include:

How Japan’s aging population is shaping the future of nursing care

How will the aging population impact the provision and sustainability of care? We put the
question to Dr Yukari Nakano, Executive Officer at the Japanese Nursing Association

The Cloud Compute agreement update

Crown Commercial Service (CCS) says that there is greater choice and range in public
sector cloud technology, concerning the Cloud Compute agreement update

What can local governments do to combat heat stress and increase safety?

Wildfires and record heat waves turn our summers into a nightmare. In this vein, what
can local governments do to combat heat stress and increase safety? Vasileios Latinos,
Head of Resilience and Climate Adaptation at ICLEI Europe, provides a detailed response

EU needs shared border management for human rights

José Antonio Moreno Díaz, EESC member and Co-rapporteur for the EESC opinion on Multiannual strategic policy for European integrated border management, says the EU needs shared border management that guarantees human rights

Building Vaccine Confidence: Strategies for dispelling myths and misinformation

Heidi J Larson, along with contributors from the Vaccine Confidence Project, discuss
the complex factors influencing decision-making around vaccines and what can be
done to improve public trust

Protecting and improving Western Australia’s cropping soils in a drying climate

Dr Stephen Davies, Principal Soils Research Scientist, provides expertise in managing soil limitations in cropping systems with a focus on developing practical solutions for grain growers

Clinical technology: Short-termism or the golden thread?

Jacqueline Davis, Chief Nursing Informatics Officer at System C Healthcare, discusses
some key obstacles the NHS faces as it navigates the digital transformation

Japan: Scientific advancement and innovation

Prof Dr Preethi Kesavan, Head, School of Advanced Technology and Digital Media at
LSBF Singapore, expounds on the potential of scientific advancement and innovation,
using the Japanese exemplar

Energy self-consumption is vital to fight climate change and energy poverty

Pierre Jean Coulon, Rapporteur for the EESC opinion on Individual and collective
energy self-consumption as a factor in the fight for the green and energy transition,
and for economic and social balance, argues that energy self-consumption is vital
to fight climate change and energy poverty

Navigating the landscape of digital mental health care: Co-creation and human rights as guiding principles

Digital technologies have emerged as a promising solution to transform mental health
systems and meet our populations’ increasing mental health needs. Francesca Centola,
Policy and Knowledge Officer at Mental Health Europe, outlines the principles that
should guide such a digital transformation

Open Access Government October 2023

October 10, 2023

Welcome to our October 2023 edition of Open Access Government, which focuses on a range of topics across health and social care, research and innovation. Discover how emerging technologies are supporting clinical decision-making in healthcare.

Read expert commentary from the likes of the European Diabetes Forum and the Pan American Health Organization regarding the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. Plus, you’ll find the latest developments regarding the green energy transition comprising articles from Ebba Busch, Minister for Energy, Business and Industry in Sweden, and Jan Dirx, Rapporteur for the EESC, among others.

In this autumn edition, we’ve got lots of top-notch writing from experts from all over the globe, including:

Empower research careers, strengthen the European Research Area

The topics discussed here by Marc Lemaître, Director-General for Research and
Innovation of the European Commission, are empowering research careers and
reinforcing the European Research Area

Updating the pulse oximeter

A portable device used to detect blood oxygen levels revolutionized the medical field
nearly 50 years ago and is now receiving essential updates

AI trustworthiness: Is the biggest AI challenge cultivating trust?

Elham Tabassi, Chief of Staff, Information Technology Laboratory at the National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the U.S., says that cultivating AI
trustworthiness may well be the biggest challenge to date

Energy policy priorities for Europe, including Sweden

Ebba Busch, Minister for Energy, Business and Industry and Deputy Prime Minister,
Ministry of Climate and Enterprise, charts the energy policy priorities for Europe,
including those of her own Government in Sweden

Mental health in the Americas: A crisis that calls for action

Dr Renato Oliveira e Souza, Unit Chief of Mental Health and Substance Use at Pan
American Health Organization (PAHO) discusses the prevalence of poor mental health
in the Americas and the policy measures needed to address them

Reducing aviation carbon emissions through U.S. sustainable aviation fuels

Dr Reyhaneh Shenassa, Chief Engineer at the Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO), U.S. Department of Energy, explains how U.S. sustainable aviation fuels will reduce aviation carbon emissions

Changes in public health: Highlighting the positive aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic

Zisis Kozlakidis and Caboux Elodie from the International Agency for Research on
Cancer discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of changes
in public health interventions and patient care

The Isle of Man’s approach to sustainable fishing

Jack Emmerson, Sea Fisheries Policy Manager Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, shares the Isle of Man’s approach to supporting a sustainable fishing industry whilst still benefiting the local economy

Investing in Canadian research that can transform the economy and society

The Interim CEO and President of Universities Canada, Philip Landon, emphasises that research has a transformative effect on economies and societies, and Canada needs more of it

Enabling innovative connectivity solutions for the public sector

Here’s an update on Network Services 3 from Crown Commercial Service,
a prime example of providing innovative connectivity solutions to the public sector

Open Access Government July 2023

July 7, 2023

Welcome to our jam-packed July 2023 digital edition, which hosts coverage of numerous policy issues from various angles worldwide. Find insightful commentary on various topics, like health, research and innovation, digital transformation, government, healthcare technology, transport, agriculture, environment and energy

For this publication, we warmly welcome Lorna Rothery as Editor of the Open Access Government online publication, who will primarily focus on our extensive health sections going forward.

Within this summer publication, we provide numerous high-profile editorial contributions from experts around the world, including:

Building a better, safer and more accountable sport system in Canada

The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Canada’s Minister responsible for Sport, shares her vision for a safe and accountable sport system in which Canadian athletes from all walks of life can thrive

Investing in health will lead to a better & wealthier future

Dr Josep Figueras, Dr Matthias Wismar from European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, with Dr Natasha Azzopardi Muscat from WHO/Europe, argue that investing in health will lead to a better and wealthier future

USDA combats trafficking of illegally taken plants

From the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service: Plant Protection Today –
Lacey Act Phase VII Is Coming – USDA combats trafficking of illegally taken plants

Emerging remote patient monitoring solutions – ‘virtually’ re-wiring the hospital ward of the future

As virtual wards become more prevalent, technology-enabled care solutions will
become increasingly important. Kelly Bevington, Principal Category Manager for IT
and Digital Procurement Frameworks at NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS),
explains remote patient monitoring solutions

NIJ puts science to work for justice system stakeholders

Nancy La Vigne, PhD, Director of the National Institute of Justice, shares perspectives on how the Institute advances justice across the nation and beyond, strengthening the scientific tools and discoveries that support justice system stakeholders

Unleashing the power of science, research and innovation in Asia

Preethi Kesavan, Head at the School of Advanced Technology and Digital Media, LSBF Singapore, highlights the transformative role of science, research and innovation in Asia

Who is the European Health Union?

Sandra Gallina, Director General at Directorate-General Sante (DG SANTE), tells us the purpose of the European Health Union, formed in 2020, which sets out to provide a healthier tomorrow thanks to the actions of today

Why must we increase representation for female entrepreneurship?

Although we live in a diverse world working towards equal opportunities, the statistics show that females are less likely than males to start businesses. Shalini Khemka, CBE, explores why female entrepreneurship is essential to foster sustainable economic growth

The benefits of exercise for mental health

Lorna Rothery spoke to the European Psychiatric Association’s President, Professor Peter Falkai, about the benefits of exercise for mental health

Improving diabetes management and prevention

Diabetes can pose significant implications for individuals’ mental and physical wellbeing. While new research shows promise in supporting diabetes management and care, many challenges still remain. We discussed these with Beyond Type 1’s content strategist Dr Liz Kopco

Feeding the world: A productive and sustainable fishing industry

Phil Haslam, Managing Director of North Atlantic Fishing Company (NAFCO), walks us
through feeding the world through a productive and sustainable fishing industry

Open Access Government January 2023

January 6, 2023

It’s time to welcome our January 2023 digital publication. Here we bring you substantial policy analysis, including health & social care, research & innovation, digital transformation, government, transport, energy, environment, agriculture and much more

High-profile editorial contributions include:

Education and training: Building our common future on solid bases

Mariya Gabriel, the European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, looks at education and training to improve education inclusivity across Europe

Delivering better health with the EU Global Health Strategy

Sandra Gallina, Director General at Directorate-General Sante (DG SANTE), European Commission, explains how the new EU Global Health Strategy steps up the EU’s role to deliver better health

Why engineering policy should be at the heart of government policymaking

Professor Nick Jennings CB FREng FRS, Chair of the Engineering Policy Centre Committee at the Royal Academy of Engineering, states why engineering policy should be at the heart of policymaking

Time to strengthen palliative care across Europe

Dr Natasha Azzopardi Muscat, Dr Tomas Zapata and Dr Satish Mishra, from WHO/Europe, argue that now is the time to strengthen palliative care across the European Region

2040: Are we on track to reach NHS net-zero?

Cameron Hawkins, Head of Energy and Environment, NHS Property Services, says we are another year closer to 2040 but are we on track to reach NHS net-zero?

Reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in Africa

Dr Prebo Barango and Prof Jean-Marie Dangou from the WHO Regional Office for Africa argue that reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in Africa is imperative

Hepatitis C virus elimination: A potential global success story

Dr Zisis Kozlakidis and Dr Dewi Nur Aisyah examine Hepatitis C virus elimination and weigh up if this has potential to become a global success story

Adaptation to climate change: Local & regional government perspective

Vasileios Latinos, Coordinator – Urban Resilience and Climate Adaptation, ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability, European Secretariat, examines the local and regional government perspective of the adaption to climate change

The impact of suicide and suicidal behavior

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, explain the impact of suicide and suicidal behavior. Suicide is preventable and no lives should be lost to it

A current analysis of mental health in the workplace

Dr Florence Baingana, Regional Advisor, Mental, Neurological, and Substance Use Disorders, World Health Organization (WHO) African Region, provides an update on mental health in the workplace

Open Access Government October 2022

October 3, 2022

We welcome our October 2022 digital publication – this autumn we are bringing you extensive policy analysis, including health & social care, research & innovation, digital transformation, transport, finance, government, environment, agriculture, energy and much more

Links to some of our high-profile editorial contributions can be found below:

Developing Canadian leadership & excellence in science & innovation

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry of the Government of Canada, writes about developing Canadian Leadership and excellence in science and innovation

Osteoporosis: An important NCD component of WHO’s vision for healthy ageing

World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, describes what we need to know about osteoporosis prevention, management and treatment, an integral component of their vision for healthy ageing

Integrating ecosystems in the Water-Food-Energy Nexus for greater sustainability

Sasha Koo-Oshima & Virginie Gillet from Food and Agriculture Organization
of the United Nations/ UN-Water, reveal their thoughts on integrating ecosystems in the
Water-Food-Energy Nexus for greater sustainability

NHS green plans driving action

Dr Nick Watts, Chief Sustainability Officer of the NHS, reveals how the NHS green plans are driving action

The global picture of Tuberculosis: A view from WHO

Dr Michel Gasana & Dr Frank Lule from World Health Organization – Regional Office for Africa, provide an update on the global picture of Tuberculosis

Denmark’s long-term vision for digital development

Agency for Digital Government, chart Denmark’s long-term vision for digital development

How do we turn the bold ambition of a net-zero NHS into reality?

Cameron Hawkins, Head of Energy and Environment at NHS Property Services (NHSPS), provides an update on a net-zero NHS and explores how we turn this bold ambition into reality

Big data and analytics services and software

Crown Commercial Service explains how a new ‘first of its kind’ agreement, specifically for big data and analytics services and software, is launched to help the public sector continue on its digital transformation journey

Digital reader improves the accuracy of reporting positive lateral flow tests

Rob Banathy, Senior Product Manager at NHS Digital, explains how his team developed a lateral flow device digital reader service that can detect nearly twice the number of positive COVID-19 cases during early infection compared to the human eye

New property strategy launched by UK Government

Mark Chivers, Government Chief Property Officer and Director General from the Government Property, heralds the new property strategy launched by the UK Government

Open Access Government July 2022

July 1, 2022

We welcome Summer 2022 with our July volume – this digital publication includes health & social care, then research & innovation followed by digital transformation, economic development, home affairs, HR & training, environment, energy, agriculture and much more

A selection of our impressive editorial contributions can be found below:

Learning the lessons of resilience for smart & sustainable mobility

Henrik Hololei, DG MOVE Director-General at the European Commission, outlines the importance of learning the lessons of resilience for smart & sustainable mobility

European innovation potential knows no bounds

Mariya Gabriel, European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, calls attention to building a pan-European innovation potential ecosystem in health served with top-notch infrastructures

The path to net-zero: Decarbonising the NHS estate

Cameron Hawkins, Head of Energy and Environment at NHS Property Services (NHSPS), describes the path to net-zero when it comes to decarbonising the NHS estate

Intercepting smuggled products to protect animal health

Will Wepsala, Public Affairs Specialist at the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, walks us through the work of intercepting smuggled products to protect animal health

Renewable geothermal energy: A climate champion

Gudlaugur Thór Thórdarson, Minister of the Environment, Energy and Climate in Iceland, discusses renewable geothermal energy, which in his opinion, is a climate champion for the clean energy transition

Better health systems: Putting health at the heart of tourism

Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge & Dr Natasha Azzopardi Muscat explain the importance of putting health at the heart of tourism, including a commitment made in this vein by Europe’s smallest countries to better health systems

The changing landscape of primary care data sharing

NHS Digital’s Programme Head for GP Data, Eva Simmonds, discusses the benefits and challenges of health data sharing and looks to the future for the GP Data for Planning and Research programme

Cellular & biological pathways from studies on communicable diseases

Adonis Sfera and Zisis Kozlakidis provide recent insights into cellular and biological pathways from studies on communicable diseases

The failed promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on the right to education

Anantha Duraiappah, Director at UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP), describes the failed promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on the right to education

Digital transformation in the future of local government

Digital transformation will play a key role in the future of local government. David Bemrose, Head of Account Strategy for Local Government at Crown Commercial Service (CCS), introduces a new digital transformation guide

Open Access Government April 2022

April 5, 2022

open access government april, research and innovation

We welcome Spring 2022 with our April volume – this digital publication includes health & social care, then research & innovation followed by digital transformation, economic development, home affairs, HR & training, environment, energy, agriculture and much more

A selection of our high profile editorial contributions can be found below:

Health Technology Assessment: Bridging the gaps to build a strong European Health Union

Sandra Gallina, Director General at Directorate-General Sante (DG SANTE) European Commission, tells us how the Health Technology Assessment bridges the gaps to build a strong European Health Union

Denmark: Moving towards personalised medicine

Magnus Heunicke, Minister for Health at the Danish Ministry of Health, argues that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to Denmark moving towards personalised medicine

Long COVID: Complex, needing long-term rehabilitative care

Dr Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, Director, Division of Country Health Policies and Systems at WHO/Europe, argues that Long COVID is a complex condition requiring long-term rehabilitative care

Challenges of clinical microbiology in resource-restricted settings

Dr Zisis Kozlakidis & Prof Olivier Vandenberg, describe the challenges of clinical microbiology in resource-restricted settings

Tuberculosis prevention efforts in Africa

Dr Michel Gasana & Dr Hugues Lago from the World Health Organization – Regional Office for Africa, spoke to Open Access Government about the status of tuberculosis prevention and the intention to end this epidemic in the region

A new social contract for education: Science & evidence

Anantha Duraiappah, Director at UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP), describes a new social contract for education, including why science and evidence matter

Building resilience & strengthening your cyber procurement

Elizabeth Giugno, Head of Category – Cyber Security at Crown Commercial Service (CCS), details the importance of the public sector building resilience & strengthening their cyber procurement

From crime scene to courtroom: Advancing the fair and impartial administration of justice

National Institute of Justice forensic science research is strengthening the fair and impartial administration of justice, explains Jonathan McGrath, Senior Policy Analyst, National Institute of Justice, Office of Investigative and Forensic Sciences

Cultivating a resilient environment with ground-breaking science

Professor Susan Waldron, Director of Research and Skills at the Natural Environment Research Council, emphasises the importance of research and innovation in adapting to climate change

Advancing a competitive bioeconomy for a sustainable future

Philippe Mengal, Executive Director at CBE JU ‐ Circular Bio‐based Europe Joint Undertaking, charts the priorities for advancing a competitive bioeconomy in Europe for a sustainable future

Open Access Government January 2022

January 4, 2022

We welcome 2022 with our January volume – this publication includes health & social care, then research & innovation followed by digital transformation, equality, economic development, transport, environment, energy and agriculture and more

A selection of our high profile editorial contributions can be found below:

Biomedical research across the globe: Why now is the time to invest in Africa

Dr Roger Glass, Director of the Fogarty International Center, and Associate Director of Global Health Research at the U.S. National Institutes of Health explores the vital relationship between NIH and the greater global health research community

In Puerto Rico, USDA holds the line on African swine fever

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, explains here how in Puerto Rico, they hold the line on African swine fever

2022: The European year of youth

Themis Christophidou, Director-General of Education, Youth, Sport and Culture at the European Commission, shares plans for the European Year of Youth 2022

COVID-19 infection prevention: Resource-restricted setting focus

Zisis Kozlakidis and Dewi Nur Aisyah, explain the renewed focus on resource-restricted settings when it comes to COVID-19 infection prevention

How healthcare stayed cyber-healthy in a pandemic

Toby Griffiths, Head of Innovation and Delivery for NHS Digital’s Data Security Centre, discusses how NHS Digital tackled cyber security issues and how ‘security debt’ brought about by the pandemic is being addressed

Microchips & industrial cloud/edge computing technologies

Johannes Bahrke, European Commission Coordinating Spokesperson for Digital Economy,
Research and Innovation spoke to Open Access Government about the next generation
of microchips and industrial cloud/edge computing technologies

A WHO perspective on mental health

Dr Florence Baingana, Regional Advisor, Mental Health and Substance Abuse at the World Health Organization African Region spoke to Open Access Government about mental health and why it is so important today

The impact of green heating in a clean, liveable city

Kristoffer Böttzauw, Director General, Danish Energy Agency, explores the impact of green heating in a clean, liveable city

Tobacco control and prevention efforts in the U.S

U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Director of the Center for Tobacco Products, Mitch Zeller, discusses here how the U.S. federal review of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products helps protect public health

Open Access Government October 2021

October 8, 2021

The October 2021 Open Access Government is our largest online publication to date – coverage includes a multitude of policy issues worldwide, including mental health, COVID-19, health technology, research & innovation, international development, transport, environment and energy

A choice selection of excellent editorial contributions can be found below:

Mental health, now

Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, Regional Director & Dr Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, Director of Country Health Policies and Systems at WHO/Europe, lift the lid on mental health in light of the COVID-19 pandemic

Japan’s 6th Science, Technology and Innovation Basic Plan

UEYAMA Takahiro PhD, Full-Time Executive Member of the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation, details Japan’s 6th Science, Technology and Innovation Basic Plan: Society 5.0 in Pursuit of Peoples’ Well-being Based on Trust and Sharing

Horizon Europe: A new momentum for European Research & Innovation

Mariya Gabriel, European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth explains why Horizon Europe, the new EU research and innovation programme, will play a crucial role in empowering EU research and innovation to shape a healthy, green and digital future

National Procurement Policy Statement

Crown Commercial Service tells us what we need to know about the UK’s
National Procurement Policy Statement

Investing in the future of neuroscience

Nina Schor, MD, PhD, Deputy Director and Acting Scientific Director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders & Stroke, part of the National Institutes of Health in the U.S., underlines the importance of investing in the future of neuroscience

International solidarity to support the most vulnerable

Dr Denny Kalyalya and Axel van Trotsenburg highlight the need to accelerate international support to protect the most vulnerable people from COVID-19 impacts

What are zoonotic diseases?

Captain Casey Barton Behravesh of the U.S. Public Health Service, and Director of the CDC One Health Office highlights the CDC’s efforts to nationally and internationally prevent zoonotic diseases

Open Science for global challenges & restoring the ethos of science

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the power of sharing research outputs in addressing global crises. EUA’s Stephane Berghmans analyses the progression of Open Science in Europe and why the movement may be the key to restoring the ethos of science

COVID-19: Challenges of vaccination logistics

The challenges of vaccination logistics during the COVID-19 pandemic are charted in this updated view, written by Zisis Kozlakidis and John Litaker

Computing, communication & information systems

Here, Nina Amla with Joydip Kundu and Fernanda Pembleton from the Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) within the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), provide an in-depth look at computing, communication and information systems

Open Access Government July 2021

July 5, 2021

The bumper July 2021 edition of Open Access Government provides in-depth coverage of policy issues globally, such as COVID-19, health & social care, research & innovation, digital transformation, finance, agriculture, environment plus energy

A selection of our intellectually stimulating content can be found below:

Europe invests in people and innovation

Mariya Gabriel, European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, illustrates how education, research and innovation are essential for transformations that can lead us to a sustainable economy

EU4Health: Building healthcare systems of tomorrow

European Commission Director General for Health and Food Safety Sandra Gallina details the ambitious EU4Health Programme proposed as a response to COVID-19

COVID-19 in Africa: Where are we?

Open Access Government caught up with Dr Mary Stephen, Public Health Expert at the World Health Organization African Region, who provides an update on the COVID-19 outbreak in Africa

An expert’s perspective on stroke

Dr Florence Baingana, Regional Adviser for Mental Health and Substance Abuse from the World Health Organization – Regional Office for Africa, provides her expert perspective on stroke

Understanding the many possible paths to dementia

Dr Roderick Corriveau, PhD from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders & Stroke, part of the National Institutes of Health in the U.S., details the importance of understanding the many possible paths to dementia

Collaboration & COVID-19: Social and behavioral science

Arthur Lupia with Deborah H. Olster from the Directorate for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences at the U.S. National Science Foundation, explain the power of international collaboration when it comes to social and behavioral science responding to COVID-19

Federal Aviation Administration international work advances safety mission globally

Lirio Liu, Executive Director of International Affairs at the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reveals their exciting work to redefine geographic and atmospheric boundaries with aviation

Federal agencies reduce carbon emissions with energy savings performance contracts

Leslie Nicholls from the U.S. Department of Energy, explains how federal agencies reduce carbon emissions with energy savings performance contracts

Sustainable battery production in Europe

European Commission Spokesperson for Internal Market, Defence Industry, Space, Education, Youth, Sport and Culture, Sonya Gospodinova, tells us what we need to know about sustainable battery product

How can Finland confront the climate crisis and preserve its biodiversity?

Krista Mikkonen, Minister of the Environment and Climate Change in Finland illustrates why a circular economy will provide the means to tackle the climate crisis and loss of biodiversity

Open Access Government April 2021

April 1, 2021

The April 2021 edition of Open Access Government speaks about government policy issues globally, like COVID-19, health & social care, research & innovation, finance, digital transformation, agriculture, environment and energy

A selection can be found below:

Horizon Europe: EU research & innovation

Mariya Gabriel, European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, describes Horizon Europe and scaling up high-impact and breakthrough research & innovation

Social & behavioural sciences to overcome daunting challenges

From public health and job creation to environmental sustainability and safer communities, the social and behavioural sciences empower people everywhere to find solutions, Dr Arthur Lupia & Jason Stoughton from the U.S. National Science Foundation explain

Driving the epilepsy field ahead with new research benchmarks

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), drives the epilepsy field ahead with new research benchmarks, Vicky Whittemore, PhD, Program Director reveals

EU climate policy on fluorinated greenhouse gases

General Director for Climate Action at the European Commission, Mauro Petriccione explains how the EU climate policy on fluorinated greenhouse gases is working and what its future holds

Advancing research on human milk and infant nutrition

Dr Andrew Bremer, Paediatric Endocrinologist and Chief of the Pediatric Growth and Nutrition Branch at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, discusses NICHD-supported research on human milk and infant nutrition

Sustainable communities, ecosystem services and human well‐being

Michael Slimak PhD, retired National Program Director for the Sustainable & Healthy Communities Research Program at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), explores the most pressing challenges today that reflect the need to understand interdependencies between the natural and social sciences

COVID-19 and drugs in the European neighbourhood partnership countries

The EU drugs agency explores the impact of COVID-19 on drug markets, use and services in the European neighbourhood partnership countries

New aspirations for democracy and media – yet to be met

Maria João Rodrigues, FEPS President, argues that new aspirations for democracy and media are yet to be met

European bio-based industries: New opportunities in 2021

Executive Director at Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI JU) Philippe Mengal discusses the new priorities and opportunities for bio-based industries in Europe, including new partnership, Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU)

Farm to Fork: More sustainable & healthier food

Claire Bury, Deputy Director-General for Health and Food Safety at the European Commission, walks us through the Farm to Fork strategy that concerns a transition to more sustainable & healthier food

Open Access Government January 2021

January 4, 2021

The January 2021 edition of Open Access Government speaks about important global government policy issues, such as COVID-19, health & social care, research & innovation, digital transformation, economic development, agriculture, environment and energy

A selection can be found below:

Suppressing the spread of COVID-19 in the Africa Region

Open Access Government was privileged to speak with Dr Mary Stephen again, Public Health Expert at the World Health Organization African Region, about suppressing the spread of COVID-19, remaining vigilant and effectively tackling any resurgence.

Japan: Science, technology and innovation policy

Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, HAGIUDA Koichi, explains the priorities for science, technology and innovation policy in Japan.

Infodemic: The other face of epidemics (COVID-19)

Sylvie Briand, Director, Global Infectious Hazards Preparedness Department at the World Health Organization, explains how COVID-19 is accompanied by a fighting an infodemic, including comment on infodemiology.

Towards resilience against water-related extreme events

Dr Anjuli S. Bamzai, NSF Division Director for Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences and Ms Elizabeth Zelenski, Staff Associate, NSF Office of the Assistant Director for Geosciences, describe research concerning water-related extreme events underway that has profound implications for society.

Dstl signals bright future for SME research in defence and security

Rob Solly, Division Head, Defence and Security Analysis, tells us how the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) signals a bright future for SME research in defence and security.

Coordinating research on pandemic preparedness and rapid response

Dr Charu Kaushic, Chair of GloPID-R, and Dr Geneviève Boily-Larouche, CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity, provide a perspective on pandemic preparedness and response, including lessons learned for global coordination among research funders.

Biological sciences: Determining phenotype from genotype

The NSF’s Division of Integrative Organismal Systems, within the Directorate for Biological Sciences, details their work to support increased understanding of the relationship between genetics and an organism’s environment plus how discoveries in this field could improve a broad range of industries in America.

Shaping of post-COVID-19 EU: Only with organised civil society!

Christa Schweng, President, European Economic and Social Committee details the shaping of post-COVID-19 EU and argues that this is only possible with an organised civil society.

The UK’s plans to boldly become a global leader in space

Graham Turnock, CEO, UK Space Agency charts the UK’s plans to boldly become a global leader in space.

Engineering research keeps America’s future competitive

Robert B Stone and Jordan M Berg, of the Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation Division at the U.S. National Science Foundation, chart precisely how engineering research improves people’s lives.

Open Access Government October 2020

October 1, 2020

The October 2020 edition of Open Access Government discusses global government policy issues, such as health & social care, research & innovation, digital transformation, economic development, international development, environment, energy and equality

A selection can be found below:

The European Commission’s next EU long-term budget

Johannes Hahn, European Commissioner for Budget and Administration charts his priorities for the next EU long-term budget and the impact of COVID-19 on the Union

Fuelling the bioeconomy through U.S. innovation and collaboration

Insight into the emerging bioeconomy is provided here by Michael Berube, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the U.S. Department of Energy

Antimicrobial resistance: The next big pandemic?

Josep Figueras and Anna Sagan from the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies focus here on antimicrobial resistance and ponder whether or not this could be the next big pandemic

Green and digital transition: More resilience and sustainable jobs for the EU

Virginijus Sinkevičius, European Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, explains the new Circular Economy Action Plan and argues that the green and digital transition can bring more resilience and sustainable jobs for the EU

Physics: Crucial questions about structure and our world

Denise Caldwell, Director, Division of Physics U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), sheds light on research that addresses the most fundamental questions surrounding the structure and inner workings of our world

Open Science in Europe: A challenge to benefit all

Frédérique Vidal, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation in France, weighs up the benefits and challenges of achieving open science in Europe

How the energy sector can contribute to Europe’s economic recovery

Ditte Juul Jørgensen, Energy Director General of the European Commission explains how the energy sector can contribute to Europe’s economic recovery

Digital accessibility: Transforming government

Alison Pritchard, Director General, Government Digital Service comments that digital accessibility is transforming government to meet user needs

How can we harness information technology to be more sustainable?

Here, Defra’s Chief Digital and Information Officer and Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) for sustainable technology across government, Chris Howes, tells us why the departments first Sustainable Information Technology (IT) strategy is such a significant development

Future machines to explore new frontiers in particle physics

Jim Siegrist from the Office of Science at the U.S. Department of Energy charts how future machines will explore new frontiers in particle physics

Open Access Government July 2020

July 2, 2020

The July 2020 edition of Open Access Government encompasses high quality and stimulating content on government policy issues globally, including health & social care, research & innovation, digital transformation, finance, economic development, government, international development, environment, energy and zero-emission vehicles

A selection can be found below:

The COVID-19 outbreak in the African Region

Open Access Government was privileged to speak with Dr Mary Stephen, Public Health Expert at the World Health Organization African Region about the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak that was first reported in China back in December 2019.

WHO’s Influenza Strategy: Prevention, control, and preparedness

A group of experts from the World Health Organization explain the Global Influenza Strategy for 2019-2030 that charts the path towards greater global influenza prevention, control, and preparedness through 2030.

The UK’s transition to zero-emission vehicles

Rachel Maclean MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at Department for Transport in the UK charts the UK’s transition to zero-emission vehicles, including comment on electric vehicles.

A clean energy transition in Europe

Kadri Simson, European Commissioner for Energy charts her policy priorities for a clean energy transition in Europe in spite of COVID-19.

Chemistry research: Driving discovery and development

The Division of Chemistry at the National Science Foundation provides an update on their work in driving discovery and development concerning chemistry research that improves the quality of life in the United States.

Environment priorities in Denmark: Nature, climate and green agenda

Lea Wermelin, Minister for the Environment, Denmark, argues that if we want to lead the way, we have to start with ourselves when it comes to nature, climate and a green agenda.

WHO report on microplastics in drinking-water

Jennifer De France from the World Health Organization walks us through
what we need to know about microplastics in drinking-water.

Current efforts to realise smart agriculture in Japan

Taku Eto, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in Japan charts the country’s efforts to realise smart agriculture.

A gateway to transport and energy research: The Innovation and Networks Executive Agency

Dirk Beckers, Director of the Innovation and Networks Executive Agency, charts the important work of the organisation in supporting transport and energy research plus the ambitious Horizon Europe research and innovation framework programme (2021-2027).

Open Access Government April 2020

April 6, 2020

The April 2020 edition of Open Access Government covers a remarkable breadth of stimulating content on government policy issues throughout the world, such as health, research, robotics & AI, international development, transport, energy and environment plus much more!

A selection can be found below:

A systemic approach to education, research and innovation in the European Union

Mariya Gabriel, European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, describes a systemic approach to education, research and innovation in the European Union.

A focus on eye health: Testing the safety of stem cell therapy for age-related macular degeneration

Kapil Bharti, PhD, Senior Investigator and Head of the Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section at the National Eye Institute (NEI), part of the National Institutes of Health, explains testing the safety of a stem cell therapy for age-related macular degeneration in this special focus on eye health.

Why does the European Commission care about the digital transformation of healthcare?

Martin Seychell, Deputy Director-General for Health at the Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE), explains why the European Commission cares about the digital transformation of healthcare.

Obesity in Europe: An urgent and relevant health priority for policymakers

Jacqueline Bowman-Busato, EU Policy Lead at the European Association for the Study of Obesity, explains why obesity in Europe is an urgent and relevant health priority for policymakers, NGOs, research funders, health professionals and the public.

The EUMCA: Pioneering access to medicinal cannabis

Professor Trevor Jones, Chair at the European Medicinal Cannabis Association, speaks to Nishat about their plans for EU patient access to medicinal cannabis.

The environment: A focus on deposit return schemes to increase recycling

Rebecca Pow MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs in the UK, states the case for real change when it comes to the environment, including introducing deposit return schemes to increase recycling and clamp down on litter.

A European initiative to establish battery cell production in Germany and Europe

The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in Germany describes a European initiative to establish battery cell production in Germany and Europe, which includes comment from the Economic Affairs Minister, Peter Altmaier.

Technology and digital transformation: The new GP IT Futures Digital Care Services framework

Martin Warden, NHS Digital’s Programme Director for Digital Transformation in General Practice, charts the importance of both technology and digital transformation in primary care. When it comes to doing more in this vein, the new GP IT Futures Digital Care Services framework plays a key role.

Earthquake monitoring in Taiwan: Current status and future perspective

Deputy Director of the Seismological Center Central Weather Bureau (CWB) in Taiwan, Nai-Chi Hsiao, explains the current status and future perspective of earthquake monitoring in Taiwan.

Safeguarding America’s crops and forests

Greg Rosenthal, Communications Specialist at the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, explains how the organisation safeguards America’s crops and forests, including comment on PPQ’s Safeguarding Continuum.