South African Journal of Science (May 2021)

POPIA Code of Conduct for Research

  • Rachel Adams,
  • Fola Adeleke,
  • Dominique Anderson,
  • Ahmed Bawa,
  • Nicola Branson,
  • Alan Christoffels,
  • Jantina de Vries,
  • Harriet Etheredge,
  • Eleni Flack-Davison,
  • Mark Gaffley,
  • Monique Marks,
  • Mongezi Mdhluli,
  • Safia Mahomed,
  • Mapitso Molefe,
  • Tshilidzi Muthivhi,
  • Caroline Ncube,
  • Antonel Olckers,
  • Maria Papathanasopoulos,
  • Jane Pillay,
  • Tobias Schonwetter,
  • Jerome Singh,
  • Carmen Swanepoel,
  • Michèle Ramsay

DOI
https://doi.org/10.17159/sajs.2021/10933
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 117, no. 5/6

Abstract

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The POPIA Code of Conduct for Research, as it is currently being considered, pertains to research conducted in South Africa, which, as part of the research process, uses personal information as defined under POPIA. This Discussion Document outlines the main areas relating to the processing of personal information for research purposes which the proposed Code will address, including what consent models would be permissible under POPIA; the issues in relation to genetic research and the processing of personal information contained in inherited characteristics; the use of information matching programmes by researchers; and the use of personal information obtained from social media platforms for research. With ongoing and wide consultation with the scientific community in South Africa and all relevant stakeholders, it is hoped that the Code will provide guidance in supporting the lawful and responsible use of personal information while conducting scientific research in South Africa. The purpose and scope of the Code of Conduct for Research are set out in the accompanying Commentary available at https://doi.org/10.17159/sajs.2021/10935