Table 4 Key strategies used within studies that took a participatory approach

Participation of refugees/IDPs throughout the research process: in design, data collection and analysis (including through an advisory group)

Affleck et al. [52], Ellis et al. [57], Fineran and Kohli [60], Green and Latifi [64], Guerin et al. [65], Gustafson and Iluebbey [66], Johnson-Agbakwu et al. [68], Johnson et al. [69], Keygnaert et al. [70], Keygnaert et al. [71], Lee and Brotman [72], Pangcoga and Gambir [78], Potts et al. [51], Potts et al. [50], Ritterbusch [82], Simbandumwe et al. [88], Vloeberghs et al. [93]

Participation of refugees/IDPs only in design/influencing the research agenda

Edström and Dolan [56], Johnson et al. [69], Lenette et al. [73], Lokot [57], Weber [94, 95]

Participation of refugees/IDPs only in analysis/feedback processes

Dantas et al. [55], Edström and Dolan [56], Thompson [92]

Using peer data collectors

Johnson [69], Murray et al. [77], Rezaian et al. [81], Sullivan et al. [90]

Providing in-kind or financial compensation for participants

Gibb [63], Holle et al. [67], Mehta et al. [75]