Upholding Ethical Accountability in Ethnobotany and Ethnobiology Research

Abstract

Ethical accountability is a cornerstone of ethnobotany and ethnobiology research involving Indigenous Peoples and local communities. This editorial affirms that formal institutional ethics review should never be bypassed, even when such processes fall short in addressing cultur- ally specific contexts. We advocate that, when conventional ethics review procedures appear inad- equate, researchers must engage in proactive dialogue with their institutions to negotiate appropriate modifications or exemptions that respect the cultural protocols of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. In the field, scholars should prioritize genuine collaboration and actively involve community leaders and members in the design, implementation, and dissemination of research projects. Moreover, journal submissions should provide transparent documentation of both institu- tional ethics approval and details on the culturally specific ethical practices followed throughout the project. This dual approach not only upholds rigorous ethical standards, but also promotes research that is respectful, inclusive, and responsive to the values and needs of the communities involved. By encouraging continuous ethics reflection, learning, and reform (if needed), this editorial envisions a research framework that not only meets legal and institutional requirements, but also honors and empowers traditional knowledge holders and their communities.