DFID Ethics Principles for Research and Evaluation

This paper from the UK Department for International Development (DFID) outlines the principals on ethical practice in research and evaluation that must be adhered to on all projects funded by the department.

The following 10 principles are outlined in the paper:

• 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.
• 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 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