  The utilisation of AI-driven tools, notably ChatGPT, within academic research
is increasingly debated from several perspectives including ease of
implementation, and potential enhancements in research efficiency, as against
ethical concerns and risks such as biases and unexplained AI operations. This
paper explores the use of the GPT model for initial coding in qualitative
thematic analysis using a sample of UN policy documents. The primary aim of
this study is to contribute to the methodological discussion regarding the
integration of AI tools, offering a practical guide to validation for using GPT
as a collaborative research assistant. The paper outlines the advantages and
limitations of this methodology and suggests strategies to mitigate risks.
Emphasising the importance of transparency and reliability in employing GPT
within research methodologies, this paper argues for a balanced use of AI in
supported thematic analysis, highlighting its potential to elevate research
efficacy and outcomes.
