Is it necessary to provide research data when submitting an article?

Submission of research data alongside journal articles is increasingly expected by many academic publishers and funders, though it remains conditional rather than universally mandatory. The necessity depends fundamentally on the journal's specific policy, the conventions of the research discipline, and applicable funding body mandates, all emphasizing scientific integrity and reproducibility. Key considerations determining the need for data provision include the established norms within the research field, the explicit requirements stipulated by the target journal, the nature of the data (particularly if sensitive or restricted), and the conditions attached to research funding sources. Adherence to the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) provides a robust framework for responsible data management. Providing necessary context through a detailed data availability statement is essential when sharing data or explaining its absence. Requiring data submission primarily enhances research transparency, enabling verification of results and facilitating meta-analyses. It supports methodological rigor and accelerates scientific discovery by enabling secondary data utilization. Widely accessible data promotes collaboration, reduces redundant data collection, strengthens academic credibility, and fulfills ethical obligations regarding knowledge dissemination, ultimately increasing the research's long-term value and societal impact.