Overcoming Research Obstacles in Hybrid Regimes: Lessons from Rwanda*

Objective: This article discusses the challenges of conducting research in hybrid regimes. Under these conditions, governments proscribe the types of questions researchers can ask and self-preservation on the part of the researcher induces further self-censorship. This ultimately impacts the type of research we conduct and the outputs of that research. Methods: Experiences conducting research in Rwanda are used to explore these challenges. Results: Research restrictions and monitoring in hybrid regimes is found to limit the types of research questions that scholars can ask as well as the questions that they do ask. Conclusions: In this article, I suggest that being knowledgeable of the context, exercising creativity when needed, and demonstrating respect for research participants are essential skills for navigating the obstacles of conducting research in a hybrid regime.