Estonian Code of Conduct for Research Integrity

Adopted in 2017 and signed by nearly all research institutions in Estonia, the Code marked an important change. It sets out the values and principles of good research, clarifies expectations for researchers, and emphasises the shared responsibility of individuals and institutions. As a framework document, the Code guides Estonian research institutions, which develop their own procedures for raising awareness, monitoring research practices, and addressing misconduct. This coordinated approach helps ensure fair and consistent treatment across the research system.

Estonia’s research ethics and integrity system

The Centre also examined Estonia’s research ethics and integrity system, including ethical review, the responsibilities of researchers and institutions, misconduct prevention, and fair investigation procedures. Through collaboration with researchers, universities, ministries, funding bodies and policymakers, it has contributed to a more coherent system that connects ethical review, research integrity support, advisory services and misconduct investigations. This work has helped shape science policy on research integrity and good research practice, including the new Organisation of Research and Development and Innovation Act, which clarifies responsibilities across Estonia’s research and innovation system.

Research Integrity Advisory Framework at the University of Tartu