The ethics of research related to healthcare in developing countries

Developing countries urgently need research to help relieve the enormous burden of disease that they carry. It is vital that those in wealthy countries, both in the public and private sector, help fund this research. However, the inequalities that exist between developed and developing countries create significant risks of exploitation when externally sponsored research is carried out.

Following a number of international controversies, the Nuffield Council on Bioethics established a Working Party to consider the issues. A report, The ethics of research related to healthcare in developing countries, was published in 2002.

A follow-up discussion paper, based on a workshop held in Cape Town to discuss practical issues faced when implementing guidance, was published in 2005.

You can download all the reports using the links on the left-hand side or read the guide to the report.