Research users need to be able to trust that scientists have taken measures to conduct research in a way that complies with professional and ethical standards, in particular with regard to truth, reliability, accuracy, respect and beneficence for research participants. Research should also be impartial and free from corruption. This is the essence of research integrity.  

Scientific research should also be inclusive, transparent and responsive to societal needs and concerns. This is especially the case in research that involves children and young people. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child provides that children have a right to express their opinions on matters that concern them; this includes participating in research. Researchers working with children and young people need to be mindful of this while also ensuring that their research is conducted in a way that is ethical, fair and transparent. Individual researchers must be mindful of the ethical principles of truth, freedom and respect. At the same time, research integrity is both an individual and a collective responsibility. Research-performing and funding organisations and the broader scientific community must therefore commit to ensuring good research practices and the highest ethical standards throughout the research process - including in research design and conduct, data management, reporting and publication, evaluation and assessment.

At the same time, things can and do go wrong in the conduct of research. Both researchers and the conduct of research are vulnerable to direct pressures from government authorities and other forms of corruption. The pressure to publish or perish within the academic community can also contribute to compromising professional research practice. Other risks to research integrity include the increasing commodification of research and education, technological advancement (including the development of AI that can influence research contexts) and an increasing focus on the achievement and documentation of scientific impact. 

In general, scientific misconduct is defined as forgery, fabrication, plagiarism or other serious violations of recognised research ethical norms. Misconduct can be either intentional or occur as a result of negligence in the planning, implementation or reporting of research. In each case, it is important that researchers and individuals who are concerned about the integrity of research know where to turn if they suspect a breach of research integrity. It should be clear when, where and how breaches should be reported and which agencies can assist in addressing this kind of situation.