Purpose and Scope

This study examines how Open Science practices and Generative AI interact to shape the future of scientific exchange and research integrity in Europe. Using a structured foresight design based on scenario building and scenario assessment, the study aims to support the political debate in the European Parliament (ITRE, IMCO, CULT) by presenting policy options together with pros and cons for each possible pathway.

The methodology follows the principles of transparency and Open Science, including:

• Open methodology and version-controlled documentation
• study protocol
• Open data (where permissible)
• Open-access publications
• Stakeholder involvement across the research ecosystem, including policy makers

Design Overview

The study proceeds in three interconnected parts:

1. Desk Research → Status quo + scenario foundations + stakeholder identification → Output: study protocol (February 2026)
2. Stakeholder Focus Group → Validation + collaborative scenario building
3. Risk Analysis & Policy Options → Structured, balanced options with pros and cons

Open Science practices apply across all parts.

Part 1 — Desk Research (Status Quo + Scenario Preparation)

Objectives

Part 1 establishes the study's empirical and conceptual foundations. It: