It is essential that research is conducted ethically: no harm is caused to any individual, collected data are stored securely, and they are used solely for scientific purposes. In 2017, the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre (EAMT) joined the Estonian Code of Conduct for Research Integrity, and in 2021 it adopted its own principles of academic ethics.

The EAMT Research Ethics Committee was established in 2010, and its membership is appointed for a two-year term by a directive of the Rector. As of the beginning of 2026, the Committee comprises Margus Pärtlas (Chair), Brigitta Davidjants, Kristi Kapten, Kaari Kiitsak-Prikk, and Aare Tool.

The EAMT Research Ethics Committee grants approval for research projects conducted by EAMT students and academic staff. In the case of large-scale research grants or studies involving higher levels of risk, approval must be sought from the Ethics Committee of the Estonian Research Council.

Approval from an ethics committee is required for empirical and historical research involving the collection of data from or about individuals. This typically includes methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, and experiments.

Ethical approval is required where research involves the collection of special category personal data, the recruitment of participants is based on such data, and/or where research questions address such topics. Special category personal data include information revealing a participant’s racial or ethnic origin (including nationality), political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade union membership, health data (including diagnoses), or data concerning a person’s sex life or sexual orientation (see more https://gdpr-text.com/).

Following a recent amendment to the Personal Data Protection Act, also historical research must take into account the justification for disclosing special category data in light of public interest, as well as the potential reputational impact on the individual concerned or their relatives.

Regardless of the research topic, ethical approval and informed parental consent are always required where participants are minors under the age of 14. In the case of young people aged 15–18, the requirement for ethical approval depends on the research question and methodology.

Contact: Research Ethics Adviser Marju Raju, marju.raju@eamt.ee