What is considered ethical practice in COPAR?

In the context of Community Participatory Action Research (COPAR), ethical practice is centered around respect, transparency, and empowerment of the participants involved in the research process. Ensuring informed consent, confidentiality, and respect for participants is fundamental because it acknowledges their autonomy and rights.

Informed consent means that participants are fully aware of the nature of the research, what is expected from them, and any potential risks involved. This empowers them to make knowledgeable decisions regarding their involvement. Confidentiality ensures that the personal information of participants is protected, fostering trust between the researchers and the community. Respecting participants reflects a commitment to valuing their perspectives and contributions, which is essential in COPAR, given its focus on collaboration and co-learning.

This ethical framework also helps to cultivate a positive relationship between researchers and the communities they engage with, facilitating deeper insights and fostering an environment where participants feel valued and safe to share their experiences and knowledge.