Safeguarding Research: The Role of Academic Publishers in an Era of Political and Public Pressure

In an era where research increasingly faces political interference, threats to academic freedom, and widespread disinformation, the role of academic publishers extends far beyond traditional content dissemination. Publishers now serve as critical defenders of the integrity, accessibility, and credibility of scholarly knowledge—especially as researchers and institutions confront mounting pressures from authoritarian regimes, shrinking resources, and politicized narratives. This panel brings together experts from academic freedom advocacy, global access initiatives, and scholarly publishing to explore how publishers can uphold and advance these responsibilities in challenging contexts. * Dr. Ilyas Saliba will offer insights on protecting academic freedom and supporting researchers whose work is targeted by political or legal pressures. * Sarah Phibbs will discuss the vital role of equitable access to knowledge through initiatives like Research4Life, addressing how publishers can contribute to global research solidarity amid structural inequalities. * Louise Schouten will share strategies from the publishing industry perspective on safeguarding editorial independence, promoting transparency, and navigating ethical challenges in product development and peer review processes. Together, the panel will discuss how academic publishers can responsibly support open research, defend scholars under threat, combat misinformation, and ensure that scholarly communication remains a trusted foundation for knowledge—even in politically charged environments. This session invites publishers and stakeholders to consider their evolving role as proactive allies in safeguarding research for the public good across borders and political divides.