Specific Support to Malta

At this first meeting of the PSF experts and Maltese authorities, discussions covered the two focus areas of the Specific Support and the rationales behind them: i.e. defining the vision for Malta’s new Open Access policy and then providing detailed guidance for its implementation. The meeting also discussed methodologies for consulting stakeholders and gathering background information, as well as the division of tasks and the timetable for this Specific Support – to be jointly agreed between the experts, European Commission, and Maltese authorities.

With the aim of developing an open access policy that is tailored to Malta’s specific needs, this was the first opportunity for the PSF experts to meet national R&I authorities and stakeholders. This fact-finding visit included consultations and information gathering on the requirements for an open access policy and for its implementation, from infrastructure to governance.

What are the best policies to support Open Access? With the aim of developing an Open Access policy that is tailored to Malta’s specific needs, this second fact-finding visit in the form of a workshop was an opportunity for the PSF experts to again meet national R&I authorities and stakeholders. It also presented a chance to discuss their key findings on a vision for Malta’s new Open Access policy and guidance for its implementation as well as test their initial recommendations.

Access to research results lies at the very core of the innovation economy, so Malta has requested PSF support in developing an Open Access policy.