Power asymmetry in global health research partnerships: qualitative study with researchers in Ivory Coast
P. Gogognon and B. Godard
Background: The asymmetry of power in global health research partnerships is an issue of justice and equity for research institutions, researchers and communities, especially in developing countries. For researchers, asymmetry of power can be an obstacle to efficient and equitable research and they are at risk of being in a state of vulnerability.
Objectives: These issues are widely discussed in the literature, but this phenomenon is still studied on a theoretical level and little empirical data is available, particularly in developing countries. The objective of this study is therefore to identify the factors and mechanisms of power asymmetry in global health research from the perspective of researchers in the global south.
Methodology: A qualitative study was conducted with 19 researchers in the health field in Ivory Coast, including 17 clinicians in the University Hospital Center and 2 non-clinical researchers. All participants were pursuing a university career in teaching and research. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to assess their perception of the factors that influence power asymmetry and the mechanisms by which they operate.
Results: Two main themes emerged from the data analysis: the challenges of funding and the complexity of interpersonal relationships in partnerships.
Discussion: This study shows that the pressure surrounding access to resources contributes to worsening the conditions in which partnerships are implemented. In addition, the institutional research environment shows links of subordination which pose risks to the autonomy of young researchers and the integrity of their work. In this regard, we recommend an in-depth analysis of the environment in which these partnerships are implemented, in particular on the dimensions of accountability, responsibility and professional integrity. (Global Health Promotion, 2020; 27(1): 92–101)
