The World Data System is delighted to welcome the Leiden Initiative for FAIR and Equitable Science (LIFES) as a new Network Member. LIFES is an active, interdisciplinary community dedicated to implementing the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) for advancing equitable science and innovation. Bringing together developers, providers, and users of FAIR-related services from public, private, and academic sectors, LIFES is committed to building a truly global and open ecosystem for the equitable reuse of data.
LIFES plays an important role within WDS by championing high-quality, machine-actionable data that is both FAIR and “Fully AI Ready,” enabling distributed analytics and supporting equitable access to scientific resources worldwide. Their approach emphasizes that FAIR data need not always be open but should always be reusable under well-defined conditions—aligning closely with WDS’s vision of responsible, accessible, and trustworthy data stewardship. Through its focus on open standards, distributed methodologies, and inclusivity, LIFES strengthens the WDS network and advances the goal of equitable, global participation in science and innovation.
Reciprocally, WDS has joined LIFES as a Recognized Expert Community (REC). WDS commits to contributing expertise and actively participating in LIFES activities, including the development, implementation, and evolution of FAIR and equitable data standards and practices.