Investigating Ethical Approaches in Climate Change and Dengue Research in Nepal
The project titled “Investigating Ethical Approaches in Climate Change and Dengue Research in Nepal” funded by World Health Organization(WHO) focuses on addressing the ethical challenges in research related to climate change and dengue fever. Nepal’s vulnerability to climate-related health issues, due to its geography, socio-economic conditions, and environment, emphasizes the need for research that prioritizes equity, sustainability, and the well-being of affected communities. Dengue, spread by Aedes mosquitoes, has become a major public health concern of Nepal, affecting all districts due to factors like global warming, urbanization, and inadequate control measures. This project stresses the importance of ethically guided research to address these growing challenges.
The project’s objective is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the ethical principles, frameworks, and best practices that can guide climate change and dengue research in a manner that promotes equity, inclusivity, and the wellbeing of affected communities in Nepal. Adopting a sequential explanatory descriptive design, it employs mixed methods such as literature reviews, stakeholder interviews, and case study analysis. By engaging researchers, policymakers, community representatives, and ethicists, the project will address ethical challenges, including community engagement, and the responsible use of emerging technologies.
The findings aim to contribute to the development of ethical guidelines that ensure research benefits marginalized and vulnerable populations while avoiding exploitative practices. By addressing issues such as environmental sustainability, fair distribution of resources, and equitable outcomes, the project seeks to enhance research integrity and societal impact. Disseminating the results through publications and stakeholder engagements will further help translate these ethical approaches into actionable policies and interventions, fostering resilience against climate change and dengue in Nepal.