<p>This autoethnography aims to explore the ethical challenges encountered during qualitative research within the context of a protracted refugee camp. Drawing on fieldwork conducted along the Thai-Myanmar border, the study examines the author’s experiences navigating ethical dilemmas during key stages of the research process, including gaining access, Building rapport, data collection, and verification. The research highlights the risks associated with relying on gatekeepers, the complexities of obtaining truly informed consent, and the ethical implications of the researcher’s dual role as both an insider and outsider. Reflexivity is identified as a crucial tool in managing power dynamics and mitigating potential harm, emphasizing the limitations of standardized ethical protocols in conflict-affected contexts. The study advocates for a more flexible and context-sensitive approach to research ethics, encouraging researchers to move beyond procedural checklists and engage deeply with the ethical complexities inherent in qualitative research.</p>