Challenges facing research ethics in fragile settings

Abstract

The first time I was introduced to the concept of research ethics was when I started my work as a research assistant at the Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University (ICPH-BZU). I was fascinated by the concept and tried to read as much as I could. While reading the different guidelines and regulations, I felt they were prepared to be implemented in an ideal world without taking into account the local context. With time, the international institutions realised that "one size does not fit all." Recently, context and topic specific guidelines have emerged.