Stepping Through the Looking Glass

Qualitative researchers may encounter unforeseen risks when undertaking fieldwork; however, such risks are not widely addressed in the management and international business literatures. Furthermore, risks to participants and their families, and translators, is also an important phenomenon seldom explored in the literature. In this article, we reflect on our investigations of slavery in the foreign charter vessel sector of New Zealand’s fishing industry. Third parties threatened and intimidated many of those involved in our research, for example, through direct confrontation and surveillance. We contend that methodological awareness around risks and coping strategies needs further development, particularly in the management and international business literatures. Knowledge of potential risks and coping strategies can help mitigate consequences and, by doing so, enhance research designs.