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OUR COMMITMENT

Ethical principles that guide our work

Every research project conducted under UWRA is anchored in a set of core ethical principles that protect participants and uphold scientific integrity.

Respect for Persons

We treat every participant with dignity, autonomy, and respect. Informed consent is obtained freely, without coercion or undue influence.

Beneficence

We maximise benefits and minimise risks. Every study is designed to contribute to knowledge that improves health and wellbeing.

Justice

We ensure fair distribution of research benefits and burdens. Vulnerable populations are protected, and communities are engaged as partners.

Integrity

We conduct research with honesty, transparency, and accountability. Data integrity and scientific rigour are non-negotiable.

Confidentiality

Participant data is protected with the highest privacy standards. Only de-identified data is shared for secondary analysis.

Community Engagement

We involve communities in research design, implementation, and dissemination. Feedback loops ensure accountability and relevance.

ETHICS REVIEW

Our ethics review process

All research conducted under UWRA undergoes a rigorous ethics review to ensure participant safety and scientific integrity.

STEP 01 Protocol Submission
STEP 02 Screening & Review
STEP 03 Ethics Committee Deliberation
STEP 04 Approval & Monitoring
STEP 05 Ongoing Oversight

Timeline: Standard ethics review takes 4–6 weeks from submission. Expedited reviews are available for low-risk studies.

POLICIES & GUIDANCE

Key ethics documents

Download our core ethics policies and guidance documents for researchers and partners.

Informed Consent Guidelines

Standards for obtaining and documenting informed consent across different populations and settings.

Data Protection Policy

Procedures for collecting, storing, and sharing research data in compliance with privacy regulations.

Vulnerable Populations Protocol

Additional safeguards for research involving children, pregnant women, prisoners, and other vulnerable groups.

Ethics Review Application Form

Standardised application form for submitting research protocols to the UWRA Ethics Committee.

Community Engagement Framework

Guidelines for meaningful engagement with communities throughout the research cycle.

Research Integrity Policy

Procedures for addressing misconduct, conflicts of interest, and maintaining scientific integrity.