The Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) and the Research Ethics Committee (KEP) of the Veteran National Development University Jakarta (UPNVJ) held a webinar entitled "Research Ethics in Practice: Challenges in Developing Countries" on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.

This event featured the keynote speaker Prof. Joachim Voss, Ph.D., RN., ACRN., FAAN, a Fulbright Visiting Specialist and professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing, United States.

This webinar is an important moment for the UPNVJ academic community to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and ethical principles in conducting research, especially in developing countries.

In his presentation, Prof. Voss invited participants to re-examine how research is conducted ethically, especially when faced with limited resources, political pressures, and complex social realities.

Prof. Voss emphasized six key principles of research ethics: respect for individuals, beneficence and non-maleficence, justice, informed consent, protection of personal data, and scientific integrity. He argued that all of these principles must be upheld, regardless of the challenges they face.

He also shared his experiences working in various regions, including developing countries, which often face obstacles such as lack of funding, political intervention, limited infrastructure, and gaps between global ethical values and local norms.

Issues such as corruption, human rights violations, and threats to academic freedom are also real challenges that need to be taken seriously.

Prof. Voss called on the academic community to strengthen a culture of ethical research through ongoing training, equitable international collaboration, and research design that is responsive to local values.

According to him, the future of research ethics in developing countries depends heavily on openness, respect for local communities, and the ability to bridge global principles with local realities.

This webinar serves as a reminder that research is not just about scientific methods, but also about humanitarian responsibility. Ethics, fairness, and integrity are the foundation for science to truly benefit all.