Evaluation is a critical tool for assessing the impact, effectiveness, and efficiency of PVE/CVE/De-Radicalisation projects. However, the success and credibility of these projects significantly hinge on the integration of ethical considerations. In INDEED, we chose to employ a human rights-based approach encompassing Gender, Ethical, Legal, and Societal Aspects.
Gender Aspects:
By addressing gender disparities and the unique experiences of different genders, evaluations can uncover valuable insights and provide recommendations that promote gender equality. Evaluations should undertake a gender-sensitive approach, that is their understanding of radicalization, their methods of intervention, and their inclusion of stakeholders. The risk otherwise is to reinforce sexist rhetoric and practices, which are often at the core of radicalized and extremist ideologies and movements.
Ethical Aspects:
Researchers and evaluators must adhere to established ethical standards, including informed consent, confidentiality, and protection of participant rights. Failing to uphold these principles can compromise the validity and ethical standing of the evaluation. A critical aspect of HRBA is non-discrimination, which prohibits any form of discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, or other characteristics. Ethical evaluations aim to uncover disparities and inequalities, highlighting areas where discrimination may exist.
Legal Aspects:
Ethical evaluations align with legal and human rights frameworks. Ethical evaluations help identify violations, and propose mitigation for improved action, contributing to accountability. Crucially, ethical evaluations protect data privacy and confidentiality. Evaluators must process personal data carefully throughout the whole data life cycle.
Societal Aspects:
One of the key tenets of HRBA is participation, emphasizing the importance of involving all stakeholders in decision-making processes. Ethical evaluations engage with communities and beneficiaries, respecting their autonomy and rights to information, consent, and confidentiality. They consider the potential consequences and impacts of policies and programs on specific communities and society as a whole.
