Co-producing research in the context of Covid-19: Global South and North collaborations

Abstract

A central objective of this research paper is to consider how research methodologies are critical to the process of decolonising research. To ensure research is designed and executed not to be exploitative, special consideration is required for proposed research (er) collaborations between the Global South and North, particularly in research which focuses on gender, violence, and justice. Understanding the positionality of all groups involved allowed for research of mutual benefit. It provided a ‘checks and balances’ process to decolonise research processes and account for historical legacies of research being ‘done to’ communities in lower and middle-income countries and settings. This paper reflects on how Covid-19 impacted the collaborative partnerships for two projects conducted between the United Kingdom and Kenya. The projects addressed two separate, but connected issues: gender-based violence and sex workers' experiences of lockdown restrictions in Kenya. Both projects adopted peer methodologies which had to be adapted due to the pandemic. During Covid-19, travel restrictions were introduced globally, directly impacting the ability to conduct field research and carry out intended joint work in the field. The British and Kenyan governments introduced domestic measures to control the pandemic, including restrictions on movement and curfews; the closure of schools and public services such as courts; reduction in public transport and service closure. Overall, there was an increased reliance on technology for communication, which enabled project outcomes in challenging and unexpected circumstances. Both projects at the heart of this reflective article were forced to switch to (and exploit) internet-based methodologies and technological innovations to ensure project delivery whilst still located thousands of miles apart.To reflect and make sense of this adaptation process, qualitative semi-structured group interviews were conducted sometime after the projects had ended between December 2021–April 2022 with researchers from Kenya and the UK. The transcripts and interview notes were analysed for common themes. Funds were secured to bring a principal researcher from Kenya to the UK to conduct a thematic analysis.The findings identified three broad themes: first, the importance of co-creation and collaboration and the need to avoid hierarchical arrangements in research collaborations. Shared learning became an important value while undertaking such research, and mutual respect and support built lasting working ties among researchers as important elements of good collaboration. Secondly, we highlight key practical issues in conducting research and the ability to adapt and innovate to the changing nature of qualitative research while focusing on the well-being of researchers and research participants; and lastly, ensuring continuity and sustainability of interventions while acquiring further funding to enhance closer collaborations. We underscore the implications of Covid-19 and the need to demand proactive consideration in such research projects to ensure equity and ethical research partnerships that foster co-learning and mentorship. This includes taking proactive steps and setting up formal and informal well-being systems. Flexible funding is also required to nurture equal opportunities for collaborative and creative research and ensure long-term partnership sustainability. This supports the cultivation of a culture of co-creation and honouring knowledge sets in collaborative research.