Research ethics addresses the relationship between researchers, the research field, and the subjects/participants of the research. This relationship is critically examined against the backdrop of vulnerabilities and power asymmetries created by the research process (Unger, Narimani & M’Bayo, 2014, p.1-2). Due to the processual and open-ended natureAn attitude of methodological openness is essential in ethnographic research to adapt to the dynamics of social processes and respond to unforeseen events in the field. A fixed, unchangeable set of research methods does not meet these requirements. Furthermore, ethnographic research is also characterized by openness toward research materials after data collection; this approach encourages the continuous establishment of new theoretical perspectives on the material in order to allow for constructive and multi-layered interpretations. Read More of ethnographic research, ethical questions arise throughout the research process in various ways, depending on the research context and methods. However, research ethics does not end with leaving the field; it also encompasses issues related to data archivingArchiving refers to the storage and accessibility of research data and materials. The aim of archiving is to enable long-term access to research data. On one hand, archived research data can be reused by third parties as secondary data for their own research questions. On the other hand, archiving ensures that research processes remain verifiable and transparent. There is also long-term archiving (LTA), which aims to ensure the usability of data over an indefinite period of time. LTA focuses on preserving the authenticity, integrity, accessibility, and comprehensibility of data. Read More, data protectionData protection includes measures against the unlawful collection, storage, sharing, and reuse of personal data. It is based on the right of individuals to self-determination regarding the handling of their data and is anchored in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Federal Data Protection Act (Bundesdatenschutzgesetz), and the corresponding laws of the federal states. A violation of data protection regulations can lead to criminal consequences. Read More, and sharing research data with participants (see, for example, ethics guidelines by the DGSKA or the position paper on archiving, provision, and reuse of research data by the dgv).

Key concepts associated with research ethics include: informed consentInformed consent refers to the agreement of research participants to take part in a study based on the basis of comprehensive and understandable information. The design of an informed consent must address both ethical principles and data protection requirements. Read More, voluntary participation, and assessing and minimizing risks and dangers to those involved.