The Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) has released its new 2026–2028 strategy, outlining priorities aimed at strengthening its role as a core global infrastructure for open access journals. The strategy builds on community consultation and responds to ongoing shifts in scholarly publishing, including the growth of Diamond Open Access models, research integrity concerns, and increased use of artificial intelligence.
DOAJ’s new strategy follows the completion of its 2023–2025 plan, which focused on equity and inclusion, journal visibility, and organizational stability. During this period, the organization expanded global outreach, strengthened its ambassador program, delivered multilingual training initiatives, and participated in several Horizon Europe Diamond Open Access projects. The number of Africa-based journals indexed in DOAJ more than doubled during this time.
The updated strategy is structured around three core themes. The first focuses on extending coverage by increasing representation from no-fee publishing models and underrepresented regions, improving metadata integration across discovery systems, and making the application process more accessible through multilingual guidance and editorial support.
A second theme positions DOAJ as a leading advocate for open access journals in research assessment, policy, and funding contexts. This includes engaging with policymakers and funders, amplifying the perspectives of editors and publishers, and strengthening recognition of Diamond Open Access journals in global evaluation frameworks.
The third strategic theme centers on leading the development of inclusive global quality standards for open access journals. DOAJ aims to ensure its criteria are recognized as a trusted benchmark, aligned with regional initiatives, and responsive to diverse publishing traditions through ongoing community consultation.
Click here to read the original press release.
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