This paper is concerned with qualitative data collection in conflict zones. Conflict zones include regions or places where wars are in progress, or where the results of inconclusive conflicts affect the populations. Research, both quantitative and qualitative, is currently considered important and is frequently carried out in conflict zones on behalf of interested governments; international medical organizations, non-governmental organizations dealing with refugee issues, and by representatives of academic institutions. This research involves both researchers and participants in situations of physical and psychological risk and insecurity but is nevertheless considered valuable enough to outweigh the inherent dangers to the parties involved.
The paper will argue that the many pitfalls inherent in situations pertaining to conflict can negatively impact on the quality of qualitative data. Three specific parts of the data collection process are dealt with: gaining access in the field; dealing with vulnerable participants; and managing researcher bias. These three are interrogated through the framework of Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) concept of Trustworthiness.
This paper is based on the researcher’s experience of qualitative data collection in Palestine in 2007/8 and 2012, firstly for a Masters of Education and then as a PhD candidate. Palestine is considered a conflict zone due to its status under military occupation, during which episodes of intense fighting take place.
The paper will conclude that by approaching data collection in an informed, determined and flexible manner, the researcher can seek to mitigate or overcome many of the pitfalls.