Over the years, those working in research ethics have sometimes felt that the ELSI (Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications) work packages or the ethics-by-design approach can seem like mere cosmetic additions to a research project to please the EU framework calls. Rather than being integrated into the research design and implementation core, they were sometimes reduced to token gestures instead of meaningful contributions to the ethical and privacy-friendly conduct of research. But shifting from being a “superficial” adornment to a truly committed approach is quite a challenge.
At REPO4EU, we are fully aligned with the ethics and privacy–by–design approach. This has enhanced the ethical and legal robustness of our projects and fostered a culture of ethical and privacy awareness and responsibility within the consortium. Ethics and privacy– by– design are not just theoretical concepts for the whole team but are practical guides that shape their research practices and decisions. This alignment underscores the team’s dedication to conducting research that respects the rights and interests of all stakeholders –especially those of research subjects– and contributes positively to society. It’s a testament to the team’s commitment to “not just doing things right but also doing the right things“.
Ethics and privacy by design are fundamental approaches that guide the conduct of responsible, lawful, and impactful research. Its challenges highlight the need for careful planning, open communication, and ongoing collaboration among all stakeholders involved in a research project. In REPO4EU, the ethics and privacy by design approach is seriously implemented. Ethics and privacy by design are, hence, no buzzwords for us.