Guidance Document for Researchers and Indigenous Communities: Ethical Collaborations in Arctic Research
The work featured on this page are outcomes of NJUOLLA->QARJUK, a collaboration between the Saami Council (Sápmi, northern Europe), Ikaarvik (Mittimatalik, Nunavut, Canada), and the Research Institute for Sustainability (Potsdam, Germany). The project was funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV). Read more about the project here.
Introduction
Research conducted collaboratively between Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners produces better-informed and more relevant data, which may lead to better knowledge for decision-making. While this type of research is the ideal, many scientists and researchers are uncertain as to how to develop the proper relationships to begin such processes. In addition, many Arctic Indigenous communities have not published their own formal research guidelines, making it difficult for researchers to know where and how to begin the co-creative process. Understanding these challenges, the Saami Council, Ikaarvik, and the Research Institute for Sustainability have partnered to create this guidance document to support progress towards collaborative research. Our intention is to support researchers and communities in building good relations and developing project-specific agreements for ethical engagement. This document’s guidance is primarily focused on Arctic regions where our organisations operate, including Sápmi (northern Europe), North America, and Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland). It is important to note, however, that if a community has its own research guidelines, these take precedence over any general information provided herein, and researchers must follow those as a priority. This guidance does not prescribe a single approach but instead emphasises listening to the community and respecting their ways and needs. Each community may choose different pathways to collaboration, and researchers should adapt accordingly.
This guidance does not prescribe a single approach but instead emphasises listening to the community and respecting their ways and needs.
What’s in this document, and how to use it
This document is intended to provide guidance for researchers and Arctic Indigenous communities seeking to establish ethical, respectful, and mutually beneficial research collaborations. It includes an overview of the colonial legacy of research, the importance of reflexivity, and considerations for building trust-based relationships. The document offers guidance for co-creating ethical agreements and highlights the importance of data sovereignty. It also offers practical questions to guide researchers in their internal reflections and structured discussions with communities. It is a tool that can and should be used throughout all stages of a research project– from the planning phase to evaluation–to ensure meaningful, equitable, and mutually beneficial engagement.
