Preserving the scientific integrity of open science in conflict and health

Since its creation, the journal Conflict and Health has been committed to fostering rigorous, independent, and accessible research that informs humanitarian practice and policy. In an era marked by complex global crises, accessibility, inclusivity and equality in the distribution of knowledge are critical components that promote fairness and social justice, allowing us to make much-needed advances in humanitarian health.

Today, we are witnessing unprecedented challenges to the humanitarian and public health research ecosystem coming from a series of US executive orders. The politicisation of data, restrictions on research funding, and barriers to the dissemination of an assembled body of knowledge threaten to undermine scientific integrity and hinder the ability of researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to develop effective, evidence-based responses. Limiting access to critical health and humanitarian research infrastructure, whether through political censorship or restrictions on international collaboration, compromises the global effort to alleviate human suffering and build resilient health systems.

At Conflict and Health, we stand firm in our commitment to serve the global humanitarian health community by disseminating scholarly inquiry that informs current debates and alleviates suffering of populations faced with adversities. We do so by abiding to our editorial policies that uphold the highest standards of scientific rigor and accountability. Moreover, we categorically oppose any attempts to restrict academic freedom, or silence voices from marginalized or crisis-affected communities. Conflict and Health will continue to follow this and will prioritize scientific output that is characterized by unbiased and independent analyses.

Crises demand collaborative and inclusive approaches. The intersection of health and conflict is inherently complex, requiring insights from multiple disciplines, diverse perspectives, and cross-sectoral partnerships. We actively seek contributions from researchers, practitioners, and affected communities worldwide, recognizing that a plurality of voices leads to stronger, more impactful scholarship.

We call upon our global community—academics, humanitarian organizations, policymakers, and frontline responders—to uphold the values of open science. This does not only require us to promote transparency in research but also to encourage collaboration and stay in open dialogue with all stakeholders involved. Together, we can ensure that knowledge and evidence continue to serve those who need it most, fostering resilience and improving health outcomes in conflict-affected regions worldwide.