OpenAIRE’s 2025 General Assembly: Dialogue, Engagement and a Shared Vision for the Future

On 18–19 September 2025, OpenAIRE members gathered in Geneva for our 16th General Assembly. The two days were filled with conversation, reflection and the unmistakable sense of purpose that comes from working together towards something bigger. This year's meeting was not just an update on progress, but a space for exchange between members, the Executive Board and the OpenAIRE office, a moment to pause, look at where we stand, and decide together where we want to go next.  

New leadership, shared responsibility

The 2025 GA combined hybrid sessions with in-person, participatory discussions that brought our members' voices to the center. Members reviewed OpenAIRE's governance and financial activities to keep our operations transparent and accountable, then turned to an important milestone: the election of a new Chair, Joeri Both, Vice Director at the University Library of the Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam. The vote marked a renewal of leadership, building on the strong foundations laid by the previous OpenAIRE Chair, Inge Van Nieuwerburgh, and reminded us why shared governance matters. It is through the diversity and dedication of our members that OpenAIRE continues to evolve as a truly community-driven organisation.

Building the Strategy 2026–2028

A central theme throughout the meeting was the development of OpenAIRE's new Strategy for 2026–2028. Over the past six months, members have worked closely through the Open Science Strategy Standing Committee to define the priorities that will guide us forward. These focus on five key areas: Trust in Open Infrastructures, Responsible AI, Monitoring of Open Science, Capacity Building Legal Clarity.

In Geneva, members built on this work, discussing what still needed attention, how to turn strategic priorities into concrete action lines, and how national developments could feed into our shared plans. The feedback collected will directly be incorporated into the document to be presented to the Executive Board in November, ensuring it truly reflects the priorities and perspectives of the entire network.

Listening, co-creating, acting

This year, we tried something new: Instead of long presentations, we introduced new facilitation methods, spaces designed not just to share updates, but to listen, exchange, and co-create with members. Through World Cafés and Gallery Walks, members discussed how OpenAIRE services support their work, reflected on the evolving role of NOADs and shared national experiences. These interactive settings encouraged open dialogue and captured a wide range of perspectives on how OpenAIRE can continue to grow as a responsive, member-driven network. The insights gathered will feed into the upcoming work of the Executive Board and Standing Committees, helping us make better, more inclusive decisions together.

Members in the spotlight

A thriving community is one that celebrates its people. Alongside long-standing members, several new institutions joined OpenAIRE in 2025, bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. During the "Meet the Members" session, everyone had two minutes to introduce their work and explain how it connects with OpenAIRE's mission (check the slide deck in the Members dedicated area). The room buzzed with stories of national achievements, collaborations and lessons learned. Building on that success, we have started regular catch-up sessions to keep the exchange going beyond the General Assembly and we will continue to spotlight members throughout the year with new features, community events and stories that showcase the strength and diversity of our network.

Embracing open dialogue

True to OpenAIRE's spirit, the General Assembly was full of open conversation, from sustainability and governance to the evolution of our services. Members spoke frankly, challenged ideas and offered solutions. What came through clearly is that OpenAIRE is not just a set of services, but a living network of people shaping its direction together. Our model of shared governance remains at the heart of what makes us trusted and resilient.

Looking ahead

The 2025 General Assembly reminded us that OpenAIRE's greatest strength lies in its people and our shared commitment to openness, collaboration and collective growth. As we move towards 2026 and beyond, we do so with renewed confidence, guided by the insights, ideas and energy shared in Geneva. Together, we continue to shape not only the future of OpenAIRE, but also the wider landscape of Open Science in Europe and beyond.

Authors: Sandra Franco, Ioanna Giannaki