What is the GFBR?

The GFBR is an informal partnership established by a number of organizations with a shared interest in the ethics of conducting research involving people in low- and middle-income countries. We convene meetings approximately annually, with an emphasis on hearing the views and experiences of a wide range of stakeholders, and the development of new networks and relationships.

Meetings began in Bethesda, USA in 1999 and subsequently convened in: Bangkok, Thailand in 2000; Cape Town, South Africa in 2002; Brasilia, Brazil in 2002; Paris, France in 2004; Blantyre, Malawi in 2005; Karachi, Pakistan in 2006; Vilnius, Lithuania in 2007; and Auckland, New Zealand in 2008.

Following a period to reflect on the structure and funding of the Forum between 2009-13, the GFBR was re-launched at a satellite meeting of the International Association of Bioethics in Mexico City, Mexico in June 2014. It renewed its emphasis on providing a platform for individuals from low- and middle-income countries to bring forward ethical issues affecting their research practice for discussion and to help find ways forward.

Please click here for an overview of the GFBR’s past activities and future direction.