The fundamentals of qualitative research: using insights from a loss and damage case study

Qualitative research is important. It allows researchers to explore complex phenomena in depth and emphasises the perspectives and voices of the participants. It provides an opportunity for individuals to share their experiences, beliefs and opinions in their own words, giving them agency and contributing to a more democratic and inclusive research process. Qualitative research can also inform decision-making processes — providing valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners and organisations to help them develop effective strategies, interventions or policies that are grounded in a deep understanding of the target population and its needs.

This toolkit introduces the fundamentals of research, with insights into a case study on loss and damage in Bangladesh. The toolkit is based on a series of four workshops hosted by IIED for the Loss and Damage Youth Coalition (LDYC) between January and March 2023. The toolkit consists of explanations of fundamental research principles in four phases: research plan; data collection; data analysis; and communication.