Ethical Code of IMAGINE Project Roel Jongeneel (LEI WageningenUR & Wageningen University) Imagine project meeting Wageningen team 29 September 2015, Radix M3, Wageninegn

Why use an ethical code? Being accountable (accept responsibility) Clarity about proper rules (consensus within multi-cultural context) Input asked from partners (checks with local practices/codes) and Ethicist WUR Two-layer approach DFID guidelines & Ethical code (HSRC-based)

DFID principles Researchers and evaluators are responsible for identifying the need for and securing any necessary ethics approval for the study they are undertaking Research and evaluation must be relevant and high quality with clear developmental and practical value Researchers and evaluators should avoid harm to participants in studies Participation in research and evaluation should be voluntary and free from external pressure

DFID principles Researchers and evaluators should ensure confidentiality of information, privacy and anonymity of study participants Researchers and evaluators should operate in accordance with international human rights conventions and covenants to which the United Kingdom is a signatory, regardless of local country standards DFID funded research and evaluation should respect cultural sensitivities

DFID principles DFID is committed to publication and communication of all evaluations and research studies Research and evaluation should usually be independent of those implementing an intervention or programme under study All DFID funded research/ evaluation should have particular emphasis on ensuring participation from women and socially excluded groups

Ethical code: values & attitude service and benefit to the countries we work in and the people we work for excellence in all our work enhancing our productivity encouragement of a respect for the participation of our colleagues and stakeholders appreciation for one another’s uniqueness fairness that builds trust sharing of our resources transfer of skills and knowledge open-mindedness in approaching conflict creativity and innovation responsible use of our resources encouragement of learning and development

Ethical code Respect and protection Transparency Scientific and academic professionalism Accountability

Practical implications Ask consent (written, visible) Respondent has right to withdraw Guarantee anonymity Compensation & inducement Avoid to work with children (or have safeguards) Inform and clearly brief participants Apply good scientific standards (e.g. Wageningen Code) Do not forget to share this with third parties!

Thank you! Questions / discussion © Wageningen UR