Institutional
The founding framework, approach, and governance structure of the Forum Institute for Social Research Association.
About Us
The Forum Institute (Forum Institute for Social Research Association) conducts independent, rights-based research across social, political, economic, and cultural fields; produces and analyses data; and aims to strengthen public debate.
With a focus on labour, democracy, poverty, migration, youth, urban issues and gender equality, it produces field research, indicator studies and policy analyses; and brings this knowledge into practice through publications, training programmes, and partnerships.
Our Purpose & Principles
Our Purpose
The Forum Institute aims to produce and analyse data on social issues through scientific methods, inform the public, and contribute to strengthening social justice, democratic participation, and social well-being.
- Produce reliable data and analysis on social issues; enrich public debate with high-quality evidence.
- Develop policy options in line with a rights-based approach; strengthen awareness and participation.
- Conduct research projects nationally and internationally; co-produce with collaboration networks and consortia.
- Broaden research capacity through education, workshops and publishing activities.
Our Principles
The Forum Institute grounds its work in a rights-based approach, scientific methods, and pluralism. We prioritise ethical standards and data security throughout our research processes.
Core Principles
- Equality, freedom and solidarity
- Anti-discrimination and freedom of expression
- Scientific methods and research ethics
- Transparency and accountability
- Participation and pluralism
- Gender equality and labour rights
How We Work
- Safeguard data security and participant privacy
- Ensure methodological clarity in findings and interpretations
- Prioritise public benefit and social responsibility
- Promote sustainability and environmental awareness
Transparency & Ethics
Our transparency commitment and ethical safeguards.
Our Transparency Commitment
- Share methodology and sample information alongside publications, to the extent possible.
- Make conflicts of interest and funding information visible.
- Ensure compliance with data security, personal data protection, and ethical standards.
- Be open to critique: disclose limitations and uncertainties.
Ethics & Research Assurance
The Ethics Committee oversees the compliance of association members and bodies with ethical principles and may prepare reports when needed. In our research processes, participant safety, consent, privacy and data security are our core priorities.
Association Governance
Institutional responsibilities across management, oversight and ethics.
Management
The Board of Directors sets the association’s strategic direction; prepares the activity plan and budget; and coordinates the implementation of programmes and projects.
Oversight
The Audit Board oversees the association’s administrative and financial operations in line with legislation and the bylaws, and submits its findings to the General Assembly through regular reports.
Ethics
The ethical framework includes institutional safeguards on research ethics, data security, conflicts of interest, and limits on representation and authority.