Human Research Ethics Online Training

"Respect for human beings is recognition of their intrinsic value." [1]

• Respect means recognising the value of human autonomy - the capacity to make one's own decisions.
• Respect ensures that dignity is valued.
• Every participant has the right to informed consent.
• Each person has the right and capacity to make her or his own decisions.
• Individuals should be empowered to make free decisions about participating in research.

The confidentiality of information supplied by research participants and the anonymity of respondents must be respected.

Yet respect is not just about individuals. No individual exists alone. People live in social groups and these groups may have their own particular customs, traditions, cultural heritage, and sensitivities, which must also be respected.

Respect must be accounted for at all stages of a project, i.e. in the planning, development, implementation, analysis, publication and presentation of data.

Any research project can develop in ways that raise unforeseen ethical complications. In particular, the developing nature of research agendas conducted over a long period of time may pose challenges to ensuring that the ongoing rights and dignity of the participant(s) are respected and protected.

[1] Australian National Statement p 13

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