As academic years begin in many countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) is celebrating its Hinari access to research programme, which is proven to have significantly improved access to scientific knowledge in low- and middle-income countries. A World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) study reveals that institutions produced up to 75% more health science publications after joining Hinari.
Launched in 2002, Hinari aims to provide open access to a wide range of journals, e-books, and other resources in multiple languages, supporting researchers and students at non-profit institutions, such as universities and public research institutes. It is a flagship programme of the Research4Life (R4L) initiative, focused on health sciences.
Research institutions in the Caribbean, central Asia, Europe and Latin America benefited the most from Hinari in generating new scientific knowledge, with academic paper output in these regions increasing by as much as 80–100%.
The report also highlights how involvement in international clinical trials increased by over 20% through Hinari. Across east Asia, the Pacific, the Middle East, and north Africa, participation in these trials increased by up to 35%. The access to literature provided by Hinari also influences clinical care and provides libraries with online resources.
"Hinari continues to play a vital role particularly in low- and middle-income countries, providing access to health science publications, enhancing research capacity and improving clinical trials," said Dr Jeremy Farrar, Chief Scientist of WHO. "By expanding global access to knowledge, Hinari catalyses the creation of even more impactful health research."
Hinari's impact is particularly significant in regions where access to updated research is otherwise limited. Institutions that use Hinari report not only improved academic output but also enhanced capacity to participate in global research networks, contribute to scientific advancements, and inform policy decisions that lead to better health outcomes.
Additionally, Hinari's impact has also been felt in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), with access to various research libraries paving the way for innovative applications in detection, diagnostics, treatment planning and the overall healthcare management of patients.
WHO remains committed to expanding the reach of the Hinari programme, ensuring that more institutions around the world can benefit from this vital resource. By bridging the knowledge gap and connecting research and science with practice, it improves health globally.
