Guidelines to conflict sensitive research

This publication outlines nine guidelines for conflict-sensitive research, from context understanding and political sensitivities to partnerships, effective communication and publication to minimize negative impacts and enhance positive outcomes.

Why these guidelines?

These guidelines by Bentele (2020) address the need for conflict-sensitive research in conflict-affected contexts, highlighting that research is inherently influenced by and influences its environment. The aim is to provide researchers with practical advice to minimize negative impacts and maximize positive outcomes. Conflict sensitivity, initially a development and humanitarian policy methodology, helps understand the interaction between interventions and their contexts, ensuring ethical and effective research practices in volatile settings. The nine guidelines are the following:

1. Considerations for research funding institutions

Funding institutions play a crucial role in supporting conflict-sensitive research. They should ensure that research institutions understand conflict contexts, show awareness of potential risks, and have institutional support for conflict sensitivity. Questions to consider include the institution's preparedness, the purpose and assumptions of the research, network and partnerships, and funding dynamics. Recommendations for funding institutions include promoting fair partnerships, supporting conflict sensitivity measures, and allowing flexible funding.

2. Assess the assumptions and political sensitivities of your research design

Researchers must evaluate the political implications of their research topics and methodologies. Key considerations include the political context, partner perceptions, and the potential impact of the research. Researchers should avoid sensationalism and ensure that their research agenda is aligned with local needs and realities. Recommendations include conducting conflict analyses, verifying ongoing projects, and collaborating with local researchers.

3. Partners are crucial: create and maintain your research network and relationships

Building and maintaining supportive and fair partnerships is vital, especially in conflict settings. Researchers should clarify roles and responsibilities, allow time to build trust, and consider the interests of different stakeholders. Recommendations include establishing mutually beneficial partnerships, connecting with NGOs, and preventing the instrumentalization of research by conflict actors.

4. Understand your perception and positioning within the context

Researchers must be aware of their social and political positioning and how it influences their research. Questions to consider include the perception of the research topic, the research team's behavior, and associations with NGOs or state officials. Recommendations include making research assumptions explicit, aiming for balanced representation, and conducting critical assessments of ethical implications.

5. Define an appropriate research methodology

Choosing the right methodology is crucial for conflict-sensitive research. Researchers should consider the sensitivity of the context, data collection methods, and potential trade-offs. Recommendations include discussing limitations with partners, planning for support for sensitive topics, and allowing flexibility in research schedules.

6. Monitoring and reflection during the research activity – adapt to the risk landscape

Constant reflection and monitoring are essential to adapt to emerging risks and opportunities. Researchers should have mechanisms to update their context analysis and strategies to counter negative impacts. Recommendations include scenario planning, security training, and engaging with stakeholders throughout the research process.

7. Take adequate security measures

Security is paramount for both researchers and participants. Questions to consider include personal safety, data security, and potential harm to participants. Recommendations include conducting risk assessments, maintaining a network for safety information, adhering to security protocols, and ensuring sensitive data management.

8. Communicate your research – before, during, and after

Effective communication strategies are crucial to managing expectations and ensuring the safety of all involved. Researchers should consider who needs to be informed about the research, when to communicate sensitive information, and how to manage the impact of communication. Recommendations include splitting research processes, defining communication channels, and adapting the framing of research to different audiences.

9. Share and publish research results

The way research results are communicated can significantly impact their perception and influence. Researchers should consider credit distribution, language of publication, and the format of results. Recommendations include involving affected actors in the communication process, conducting validation workshops, and developing dissemination strategies that prioritize safety and prevent conflict escalation.