Abstract: This field report highlights this author/researcher’s experiences in gaining access to street-connected children in Ethiopia to conduct field research. I discuss the political challenges I encountered while I sought permission to access research settings and engage with potential street-connected child participants. This study highlights how political motives may drive officials to conceal the issue of street-connected children, creating false impressions for the public, visitors, or international guests suggesting the problem has been resolved. This is a politically motivated hurdle that Ethiopian researchers often face, requiring them to handle their work ethically and sensitively. They should be aware of these complexities and engage in negotiations with legal gatekeepers or authorities to navigate these political challenges, while upholding ethical and effective research standards. Overall, adopting both a problem-solving mindset and preparedness to readjust research plans is crucial to navigate legal barriers and ensure research progress.
Kaleab Fikre (Wed,) studied this question.