News

Fewer Paywalls for Scientific Publications

Åbo Akademi University, together with several other Finnish universities, introduced a pre-licensing model that applies to articles published in scientific journals. Researchers’ right to openly share their articles was strengthened at the beginning of 2026.

Today, a large share of the latest research results is locked behind paywalls. The model ensures researchers’ right to deposit their article manuscripts in their own university’s publication repository and thereby share them openly as quickly as possible, regardless of any restrictions imposed by publishers. It is common for publishers to require that article manuscripts may only be shared after a delay of several months. This decision means that researchers no longer need to take such restrictions into account. Instead, Åbo Akademi University assumes responsibility on behalf of the individual researcher.

The change is significant both for individual researchers and for the public. Chief Librarian Yrsa Neuman describes the change:

“The change is significant, and we may not immediately grasp its full scope. Åbo Akademi University’s decision makes it easier for researchers to disseminate knowledge and strengthens access to the latest research in Finland.”