Many research ethics frameworks are rooted in Western traditions and do not always align with African cultural practices, social values, and communal responsibilities. As a result, research conducted within the African context may be affected by limited cultural relevance, weakened community engagement, and inequitable approaches to data ownership and use. The SCREM is a proposed framework that integrates themes from empirical and theoretical evidence aligned with the Western bioethical principles and a socio-cultural theory.
We invite research scholars, bioethicists, research ethics trainees/scholars and practitioners to submit case studies for an edited collection on research ethics in Africa. This collection aims to provide practical applications of the Sociocultural Research Ethics Model (SCREM).1 Framework by compiling ethically significant experiences, dilemmas, and practices emerging from African contexts, drawing on both theoretical reflection and lived realities. The collection seeks to centre African perspectives, ethical traditions, and contextualised analyses that reflect the diversity of the continent’s histories, cultures, institutions, and moral frameworks.
Scope and Themes
We welcome original case studies that explore ethical issues across a wide range of fields including but not limited to

• Community engagement
• African moral philosophies
• Communitarianism
• Culture
• Religion
• Cultural relativism
• Vulnerability
• Broad consent
• Risk of coercion
• Confidentiality
• Obligations of the global community

Case studies may focus on research ethics, institutions, policies, community practices, or clinical ethical dilemmas, and should demonstrate how ethical questions are understood, negotiated, and resolved (or remain unresolved) within African contexts.
What We Are Looking For
Submissions should:

• Be grounded in an African context (local, national, or regional)
• Clearly articulate the ethical issue(s) at stake
• Provide sufficient contextual background
• Engage ethical analysis (theoretical, applied, or practice-based)
• Highlight lessons, tensions, or implications beyond the specific case
• Include 3-5 relevant questions to analyse the case.

• Word count : 1,000-1,500 words (not including references)

• Case study format:

1. List of authors & affiliations
2. Summary  or abstract (350 words)
3. Background/Introduction
4. Case
5. Conclusion
6. References

Deadline for Submission: 5th June 2026