Where European research and ethics meet
The EURECNET (European research ethics committees' network) project worked to foster a sustainable infrastructure for European research ethics committees (RECs). In support of promoting exchange, cooperation, reviews and network development, the primary objectives covered five main areas: infrastructure, information gathering, training materials, capacity building and emerging ethical issues. Project efforts and deliverables succeeded in strengthening links between European RECs. One of these is the website, which acts as a common information portal that has become a virtual meeting point for REC members Europe-wide. Additionally, a permanent EUREC Secretariat was established to monitor developments and coordinate EUREC work. Other work involved exchanging information regarding national legal backgrounds and structures of European RECs, as well as exchanging experience with training programmes for REC members. Furthermore, EURECNET identified new partners to continue the European networking process –an important aspect of capacity building. A regular electronic newsletter was distributed during the project to inform about the proceedings, and a print newsletter helped raise awareness for EUREC. Results, proceedings, events and relevant news are also available on the website. Expanding the network of European RECs, EURECNET contributed to consolidating and strengthening the base for ethical review of research in science and technology. Improved networking processes and developing high-quality standards in clinical trials should also ensure the better protection of human research subjects.
Keywords
Research, ethics, research ethics committees, capacity building
