Legislation for science in the digital age

Science operates in the digital age in a space that besides disciplinary, technical and organizational dimensions also has a legal dimension. Along this line, the scope for action open to science is either restricted or facilitated. The effects of complex legal framework conditions with respect to scientists’ sphere of action often have to be first analysed and communicated. Within the sphere of action of Digital Transformation, the legal framework limits or permits the flow and use of information, e.g. through laws governing copyright, neighbouring rights, data protection and personality rights. It also regulates the digital service markets which science makes use of, e.g. through competition law, anti- trust law and tax law.

As an interdisciplinary topic within the Alliance Initiative, the legal requirements must always be covered in the whole area of digital science and its progress. The previous procedure of responding primarily to current legislative initiatives and newly arising requirements from science or politics by means of position papers or handouts, for example, has proved effective and is to be continued. The aim on the one hand is to help shape political processes, and on the other to inform the players concerned of changes to the framework conditions in a comprehensible manner.

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