The MuSE Consortium has officially introduced “interest-holders” as a replacement for the term “stakeholders,” aiming to foster more respectful and accurate engagement with diverse groups involved in health research. This shift responds to concerns over the colonial implications associated with the traditional terminology and seeks to clarify the roles and responsibilities of groups impacted by health-related decisions.
Rationale Behind the New Terminology
The term “stakeholder” has been criticized for its colonial undertones, potentially disrespecting Indigenous Peoples and other marginalized groups. Recognizing these sensitivities, the MuSE Consortium members sought a more inclusive and precise term. After reviewing various alternatives, “interest-holders” emerged as the preferred choice due to its clear representation of groups with legitimate interests in health issues.
Consensus and Adoption Process
With over 160 international members, the MuSE Consortium engaged in extensive discussions and consultations to evaluate potential alternatives. Two rounds of member consultations and a thorough review of existing literature informed their decision. The collective agreement on “interest-holders” reflects a commitment to enhancing the clarity and inclusivity of research engagement terminology.
• Replacing “stakeholders” with “interest-holders” acknowledges the specific interests of groups without historical baggage.
• The new term aims to streamline communication within the research community by reducing terminological confusion.
• Adoption by other organizations may lead to a more standardized approach in health research engagement.
“Interest-holders” are defined as groups with legitimate interests in the health issue being studied. These interests are derived from the fact that members of these groups either influence or are affected by health-related decisions that research can inform. This precise definition helps in identifying and involving the right parties in the research process.
Adopting “interest-holders” marks a significant step towards more culturally sensitive and clear terminology in health research. By eliminating the colonial connotations of previous terms, the MuSE Consortium promotes a more inclusive environment where all parties feel respected and accurately represented. This change not only benefits Indigenous Peoples but also sets a precedent for other organizations to follow suit. Researchers and policymakers can now engage more effectively with diverse groups, ensuring that research findings are informed by the genuine interests of those affected.
This terminology shift facilitates clearer communication and fosters trust among research participants and decision-makers. By precisely identifying the roles and interests of involved groups, “interest-holders” enhances the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in health research. Practitioners are encouraged to adopt this term to promote inclusivity and respect, ultimately leading to more robust and ethically sound research outcomes.
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