Ethics Committee

In our Committee's view, ethics in the social sciences goes beyond mere compliance with protocols or standards imposed by funding agencies. It is based on a reflective, evolving and contextual vision, in tune with the complexity of our societies. 
 

Far from being limited to universal rules or procedural approaches, ethics in the social sciences involves: 
 

• Continuous questioning : ethical issues are not only resolved at the start of a project, but evolve throughout the research process (before, during and after). 
   
• Attention to local contexts : Researchers must adapt their practices to respect the cultural, social and political particularities of the field, while taking into account the expectations and safety of participants. 
   
• Acknowledging vulnerabilities : The social sciences, particularly their qualitative and immersive methods, can expose researchers and participants alike to complex emotions, tensions and dilemmas. 
   
• Open dialogue : Ethics should not be seen as a constraint, but as a space for shared reflection between researchers, participants and peers. 
   

The Committee draws on this vision to offer appropriate support, taking into account the specific features of each research project. It encourages researchers to move beyond a purely defensive or formal approach to ethics as a tool for critical reflection, essential for responsible and committed research

1. Supporting Researchers Facing Ethical Dilemmas    
 

The Ethics Committee supports researchers who are confronted with complex ethical questions before, during, or after their research. This voluntary and informal service offers a safe space to discuss encountered dilemmas. The aim is solely to support your ethical reflection. 

The Ethics Committee guarantees a listening space where concerns related to sensitive or hazardous research fields can be openly expressed. By collaborating with researchers, it helps to identify appropriate solutions tailored to the situations encountered. 
 

2. Issuing a Formal Opinion

Some funders or partners require a formal opinion (ethics certificate) before funding or collaborating on projects. Upon request from researchers, the Committee reviews research projects and issues a formal opinion after a thorough analysis and direct discussion with the project leaders.
 

3. Reflection on Ethics in Social Sciences

Social sciences face specific, often underestimated ethical challenges. The Ethics Committee seeks to address this gap by developing a systematic reflection on the ethical dilemmas inherent to this field. This initiative also enhances the visibility of social sciences among other disciplines and the general public. 
 

4. Threats to Research Freedom
 

Research freedom is essential for scientific independence. The Ethics Committee plays a key role in collectively defending researchers when their freedom is threatened. While respecting the limits of its scope of action, the Committee also ensures that ethical constraints do not compromise researchers' roles.
 

5. Mediation in Case of Complaints
 

In cases of ethical breaches within the institute, mediation may be provided by a third-party body. The mediator, independent from the Committee members, intervenes to resolve disputes and seek amicable solutions. This process ensures fair and respectful handling of the parties involved. 

It is important to note that if there is suspicion of a breach of research integrity expressed by or against a member of the IACCHOS institute, it is the Research Ethics Commission that must be contacted by the authorities. The Ethics Committee cannot, under any circumstances, substitute for this body. 

Professor of Social Science : An Ansoms
Professor of Historical Methodologies : Aurore François
Professor of Sociology : Eric Mangez
Demographic researcher : Jean-Paul Sanderson
Professor of Education Sciences : Vincent Dupriez (president)