TSRC have published their latest Discussion Paper, 'Discussion Paper G: Co-producing knowledge with the below the radar communities: factionalism, commodification or partnership? A Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Case Study'.
There is a growing interest in the co-production of research knowledge involving academics working in partnership with marginalised citizens and communities. This is particularly the case where, for reasons of language, culture and histories academics may encounter difficulties in engaging those they wish to research.
However, the concept of community participation in research - certainly as equal partners - has been, and remains, contested. Is the knowledge generated 'tainted' by activism and engagement or can it be critical and objective? The following discussion paper explores the debates around community led research, drawing on the specific case study example of European Gypsy, Traveller and Roma research networks. It identifies the challenges in the co-production of research knowledge and how more inclusive models of research might be developed in future.
Whilst this Discussion Paper draws on a Roma specific case study, it is intended as a basis for further - and wider - debate on the role of, and challenges facing, participatory community research, its relationship with academic rationalism and its potential to promote social justice.