Strengthening Research Ethics Systems in Liberia: Challenges, Prospects and Implications

Abstract

Gloria T. Mason, Stephen B. Kennedy*, Lawrence M. Sherman, Jemee K. Tegli, Curtis H. Taylor, Cecelia A. Morris, Fatorma K. Bolay and Dario Scaramuzzi

Despite the tremendous growth of Research Ethics systems in resource-limited settings, structural and systematic challenges persist. Therefore, effective ethical frameworks must be cultivated and further implemented to promote the rights of human subjects and vulnerable populations, strengthen the implementation of high quality research, and engage the participation of communities for the sustainable growth of research ethics systems in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs). To explore those challenges, we conducted a cross-sectional study among prior and current members of research ethics committees in order to determine the facilitators and gaps that are impeding the growth of the research ethical systems in Liberia, a resource-limited country, and subsequently utilize the findings to formulate country- specific ethical and regulatory frameworks. The results revealed plethora of ethical challenges, ranging from the inadequacy of infrastructure to limited, non-inclusive, funder-driven, capacity building initiatives. While the findings have program and policy implications, the results could likely create a platform to support future ethics-based research efforts directed at developing effective ethical frameworks to strengthen and sustain research ethical systems in resource-limited settings.