International guidelines provide principles and values to guide research with people who have mental health problems. However, obstacles remain for implementation at a national level and achieving an ideal governance framework. What are the challenges to ensuring people with mental health conditions have equitable access and opportunities to participate in research, and balancing protections to safeguard their rights and welfare? This seminar will explore three LMIC case studies and highlight the need for culturally sensitive mental health law and guidance and training for researchers and research ethics committees.