What should researchers do to ensure compliance with ethical standards in international research?

The correct approach for researchers to ensure compliance with ethical standards in international research is to be aware of and abide by the ethical regulations of the country in which they conduct the research. Different countries have varying cultural, legal, and ethical norms that govern research practices. Researchers engage with local populations, often in unique contexts that may involve specific ethical considerations related to informed consent, privacy, and data handling.

Understanding and adhering to local ethical regulations not only respects the rights and well-being of participants but also helps build trust with host communities and institutions. This compliance is critical for ensuring that the research is conducted ethically and is able to withstand scrutiny from both local and international stakeholders.

Conducting research only in their home country would limit the scope, impact, and diversity of research findings, while ignoring differing regulations would undermine the ethical integrity of the research. Adhering solely to institutional guidelines can also be problematic, as these guidelines may not encompass the full range of ethical considerations relevant to the specific cultural and regulatory context of the research being conducted.