A framework for building research partnerships with first nations communities

Area of Science:

• Indigenous Health Research
• Environmental Health
• Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR)

Background:

• Traditional research (

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a framework for building sustainable research partnerships with First Nations communities.
• To promote Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) as an equitable and effective research methodology.

Main Methods:

• Overview of ethical guidelines for research with Aboriginal peoples.
• Presentation of the historical context and principles of CBPR.
• Introduction of a five-phase framework for research partnerships (pre-research, community consultation, community entry, research, dissemination).

Main Results:

• The proposed framework integrates CBPR principles for respectful and productive partnerships.
• The framework's five phases are cyclical, non-linear, and interconnected, emphasizing collaboration.
• The framework has been successfully applied to environmental health research projects with First Nations communities in Saskatchewan.

Conclusions:

• CBPR is essential for addressing complex health and environmental issues in First Nations communities.
• The presented framework provides guidance for establishing long-term, respectful research collaborations.
• Sustainable solutions require equitable partnerships and community involvement throughout the research process.