Building Local Networks for Open Science: A Case Study of the Chinese Open Science Network (COSN)

The Open Science movement, dedicated to making scientific research more accessible, transparent, and collaborative, faces the challenge of its developed-country origins potentially marginalizing communities in the Global South. This chapter delves into the Chinese Open Science Network (COSN) as a grassroots group pioneering Open Science within the Chinese-speaking community, aiming to bridge the language and cultural divides in science, foster community engagement, and enhance collaboration through digital infrastructures. By focusing on COSN's multifaceted approach, including engaging early-career researchers, utilizing digital platforms for community building, and implementing frugal operation strategies for sustainable development, the chapter highlights COSN's significant contribution towards fostering a more inclusive and collaborative local scientific community. Reflections on COSN's journey reveal four key insights for empowering Open Science practices across the Global South: addressing community-specific needs, emphasizing practical applications, forging diverse partnerships, and maintaining operational affordability. These insights, coupled with COSN's experience in combining resource-sharing with community-building, offer a potential roadmap for other communities aiming to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable research ecosystem. Through a comprehensive analysis, the chapter underscores the importance of grassroots efforts like COSN in bridging the global capacity gap in scientific research and aligns with broader international development objectives.Note: This chapter is published in the book "A better how: notes on developmental meta-research", edited by P.S. Forscher & M. Schmidt. DOI: doi.org/10.62372/ISCI6112