The Coalition for Independent Technology Research (CITR) is embarking on a new research project called the State of Independent Tech Research Report, to map and examine challenges faced by independent technology researchers globally. Independent technology researchers play a vital role in helping the public navigate technological change. However, they face numerous barriers in conducting and disseminating their work. Drawing inspiration from indexes like the World Press Freedom Index and the Internet Freedom Index, the State of Independent Tech Research report aims to fill a critical gap by centering the challenges of independent technology researchers. This report will be based on insights gathered from our global membership of more than 400 independent technology researchers based in 36 countries around the world.
Following the inaugural Independent Tech Researchers’ Summit held last year, we published key challenges and gaps that independent technology researchers face. Now, this original research takes that work further, offering a deeper dive into the obstacles independent tech researchers encounter. This landscape report also aims to elevate underrepresented voices in independent tech research beyond the West through direct engagement with the Coalition’s membership across different regions, while raising awareness of growing risks and threats.
The work of our members has never been more vital—and many in our community are feeling the threats to their work increase in current socio-political climates. This report will serve as a foundation for public storytelling, emphasizing the crucial role of independent researchers in guiding the public through technological change and the challenges they encounter in this work. It will also inform our Coalition’s future advocacy efforts to address these barriers and advance our mission.
If you’d like to learn more about the report, reach out to us at info@independenttechresearch.org.