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The book Open Science in Latin America, published by the University of Costa Rica, the Latin American Council of Social Sciences (CLACSO), and Simon Fraser University of Canada, analyzes the progress of open science in the region and devotes one of its chapters to the role of RedCLARA in this process.

The book Open Science in Latin America, published by the University of Costa Rica, the Latin American Council of Social Sciences (CLACSO), and Simon Fraser University of Canada, analyzes the progress of open science in the region and devotes one of its chapters to RedCLARA’s role in this process.

The chapter, entitled “RedCLARA as a facilitator of open science in the digital ecosystem of Latin America and the Caribbean,” written by Martha Galvis, information management analyst at the organization, presents open science as a space for cooperation in which sharing information, resources, and experiences is a pathway to expanding access to knowledge and generating solutions with social impact. In this context, RedCLARA is recognized as an actor that connects people, institutions, and countries to strengthen research and innovation.

The text highlights that collaboration among universities, research centers, and national networks is essential to expand access to knowledge and strengthen social and economic development in the region. In this process, RedCLARA acts as a digital bridge that connects the National Research and Education Networks (NRENs), facilitating the exchange of data, ideas, and projects.

One of the main examples of the organization’s leadership and results is the BELLA Program, implemented together with GÉANT and with the support of the European Union. Since 2016, it has radically transformed connectivity between Latin America and Europe through the first fiber-optic cable linking Portugal and Brazil and a terrestrial network connecting Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, and Panama. In 2023, this initiative was expanded with the BELLA II project, aimed at integrating more countries, expanding collaboration opportunities, and strengthening the regional digital ecosystem.

Among the main outcomes of BELLA II, the chapter highlights the testbeds developed in areas such as HPC, bioinformatics, and blockchain. These advanced processing environments allow researchers to explore new solutions and generate knowledge to address the region’s challenges.

Another RedCLARA service that promotes open science is identity federations, which provide fast and secure access to various digital services in the region and worldwide. The text also highlights the Open Desk (Ventanilla Abierta), a space that guides researchers and scientific communities in finding support for connectivity, storage, and digital tools, promoting integration and collaborative work.

The chapter dedicated to RedCLARA concludes that open science is only possible when stakeholders work in a coordinated manner. Along this path, the organization continues to consolidate itself as an essential bridge for knowledge to circulate, be shared, and generate real benefits for society.

The book can be downloaded at:
https://biblioteca-repositorio.clacso.edu.ar/bitstream/CLACSO/277344/1/Ciencia-abierta-AL.pdf