The question of how to adequately assess science and scientific performance is currently the subject of increasing debate at both national and international levels. In particular, the strong focus on a few quantitative indicators has come under criticism. These metrics do not do justice to the diversity and content of scientific achievements. Rather, they often create the wrong incentives, with negative consequences for the entire science system and the quality of science.

Efforts to reform research assessment are not new. The Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), launched in 2012, is probably the best-known initiative to address the need for change in the way researchers and the results of scientific research are assessed. Since 2021, these efforts have gained new momentum with the Reforming Research Assessment process. Initiated by the European Commission, in close collaboration with the European University Association and Science Europe, and with the participation of many national and international research institutions, the "Agreement on reforming research assessment" (ARRA) was formulated and, after discussion with stakeholders, officially published for signature in September 2022.

In this context, the Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (CoARA) was founded in December 2022. Its members include international, national, and regional professional associations, research institutions, research funding organizations, and government agencies that share an interest in making research assessment processes fair and transparent.

Unlike previous initiatives, the signatories of the Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment (ARRA) have made ten commitments, although they are free to set their own priorities and choose their own approach to implementation. The basis for implementing the commitments is the "Action Plan" to be submitted within one year of signing the ARRA. Organizations are also encouraged to make their Action Plans public to encourage the sharing of knowledge and experience beyond their own institutions.