Immaculate Owomugisha Bazare

This session focused on how cultural context, local knowledge, and understanding of structural, social–economic factors and community engagement shapes health research and data. Speakers A/Prof Amaya Perez- Brumer, University of Toronto and Professor Deevia Bhana, University of Kwazulu Natal, indicated we need to decolonize HIV science and promote community-centered research.

The discussion in this session was tailored to understanding the context in which research is conducted – does it take into consideration the social, economic and cultural contexts of the communities? Does it inform the improvement of health? Are research participants well informed about the research and does it consider gender identity issues? These key questions were discussed by A/Prof Pereza -Brumer. He emphasized that it is the responsibility of researchers to actively recognize the part they play in the perpetuation of extractive data. He called for equity and a more just imagining of what HIV science can do, which should not be divorced from the examination of the role that power and politics play in the perpetuation of extractive data practices. Professor Bhana further developed this discussion, noting that researchers need to adopt a decolonial perspective, and center the experiences and needs of communities in HIV research. Researchers need to become more responsive, equitable, and effective when conducting research. Professor Bhana further noted that this calls for acknowledging historical injustices, addressing power imbalances, engaging in collaborative partnerships to transform the landscape of HIV research, prevention, and treatment.

Decolonizing HIV science involves recognizing and addressing historical colonizing practices and exploitation in the field of HIV research and beyond. It aims to transforming research practices to be more equitable, inclusive, and respectful of the diverse knowledge system and community voices. It calls ethical conduct of research and empowering communities to participate in and take ownership of research. Centering communities, being sensitive to culture diversity, and promoting access to information, knowledge sharing, and collaboration are essential. These strategies have the capacity to move us towards a more equitable and decolonial approach in research -hence addressing the global HIV/AIDS pandemic.