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Short Abstract

Citizen science in health empowers participants and enhances societal impact but raises various dilemmas. In an interactive dilemma café, we discuss real cases, explore roles and ethical perspectives, and co-create insights for ethical and inclusive research that strengthens societal impact.

Abstract

Citizen science creates opportunities for meaningful collaboration between researchers and citizens. These collaborations can empower participants, strengthen the relevance of research, and enhance the societal impact of science. At the same time, involving citizens in health research introduces unique challenges. Questions arise about the role and responsibilities of the researcher and the other participants, how to deal with unequal power relations, how to navigate sensitive situations where values and expectations may conflict, and how to turn project results into actionable policies.

In this interactive session, we aim to raise awareness of (ethical) dilemmas and contribute to a culture of openness and reflection. We will explore ethical challenges by playing the dilemma café. This café is based on real-life scenarios we encountered in our own citizen science projects. Each dilemma illustrates a situation in which researchers are confronted with difficult choices such as deciding how to act when participants disclose sensitive personal information.

By reflecting upon these scenarios, participants are encouraged to reflect on their own perspectives and experiences, exchange strategies with others, and consider how structured dialogue can help research teams to anticipate and address ethical challenges. To conclude the session, we will provide a short summary of the key points raised during the discussion and highlight shared insights. Together with the participants, we will formulate practical take-home messages to inspire future citizen science projects in the health domain.