Implementing is necessary: the gap between discourse and practice in global open science

Open science aims to promote more transparent, collaborative, and accessible practices in the scientific process. However, barriers such as fear of exposure or reluctance to share data and methods make researchers hesitant to amply engage with this movement. This study analyzes the global open science movement and the persistent gap between its discourse and practice. Based on a critical narrative review of historical milestones, the analysis demonstrates that although open science promotes transparency, collaboration, reproducibility, and stronger connections among science, society, and policy, its adoption remains uneven and limited. Individual barriers, such as a lack of training and fear of misuse, along with institutional obstacles related to publishing models, evaluation metrics, and financial constraints, hinder the full implementation of open practices. Contrastingly, significant benefits are evident, including cost reduction, acceleration of scientific progress through data reuse, and reinforcement of evidence-based public policies. Worldwide experiences highlight both the advances and inequalities in access and infrastructure, demonstrating that the global impact of open science depends on more equitable participation. In conclusion, bridging the gap between discourse and practice requires structural changes in research evaluations, cultural shifts that prioritize collective knowledge, and stronger integration between researchers, policymakers, and society. Implementing open science is essential to ensure that knowledge production truly serves global development and social equity.