A Research Ethics Committee (REC) is an ethics oversight body that reviews human research to ensure ethical conduct, risk minimization, and informed consent adequacy.
RECs are widely used outside the U.S. and may be part of national health systems, academic institutions, or regional oversight frameworks. In global trials, REC review may be required alongside regulatory authorization, and requirements can vary by country in content and timelines. REC oversight commonly addresses participant information clarity, compensation, privacy protections, and local feasibility. Aligning REC expectations with sponsor and site practices supports smoother approvals and consistent participant protections.