“Researchers often face hostility without the support to protect themselves or process harms. With the Safe Research Ethics Framework, we demonstrate how a care-based, solidarity-driven approach can help research teams create supportive environments where everyone—from academics to artists, early-career researchers to senior researchers—feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive, thereby strengthening both individuals and the research.” - Brit Anlar, Universiteit van Amsterdam.
How can researchers be supported when their work involves sensitive or high-risk topics? MEN4DEM’s new report explores that question, outlining practical steps to strengthen researcher safety and care across all stages of the research process. The report introduces a new approach rooted in Feminist Care Ethics, which emphasises care, interdependence, and shared responsibility across institutions, teams, and individuals.
The Safe Research Ethics Framework highlights:
- The risks researchers face, from reputational damage and online harassment to physical safety threats.
- Why current approaches aren’t working; ethics procedures often prioritise legality and liability over care, leaving researchers without adequate protection.
- A new approach that applies Feminist Care Ethics to research safety, centring relationships, empathy, and solidarity rather than impersonal rules.
- The creation of the MEN4DEM Researcher Safety Helpdesk. This provides resources, tailored training, peer support, and country-specific directories to strengthen prevention, preparedness, and response.
While developed for MEN4DEM, the framework and Researcher Safety Helpdesk offer a transferable model for other research institutions worldwide. Together, they show how embedding care into research infrastructures can safeguard both participants and researchers.
Download and read the full report
Authors:
- Liza Mügge, Universiteit van Amsterdam
- Brit Anlar, Universiteit van Amsterdam