Appeal and Complaints Policy

Purpose of the Policy

This policy outlines the procedures and principles that govern the process of appealing editorial decisions and lodging complaints about the publishing process. It ensures that concerns are resolved fairly, objectively, and in a manner that upholds the quality and integrity of our publications.

The policy applies to disputes over editorial decisions, concerns regarding submission handling, and issues related to ethics, transparency, or content quality. It ensures all stakeholders—authors, editors, reviewers, and readers—are treated with fairness, respect, and transparency.

Grounds for an Appeal or Complaint

Authors, reviewers, or readers may submit an appeal or complaint for one or more of the following reasons:

• Editorial Decision: When an author believes a manuscript rejection resulted from an unfair or flawed review process.
• Process Concerns: Issues with the submission, peer review, or editorial communication processes.
• Ethical Concerns: Complaints regarding research ethics, plagiarism, authorship, or data integrity.
• Publication Disputes: Concerns over data accuracy, misconduct, or content integrity in published articles.

How to Submit an Appeal or Complaint

• Initial Steps: Attempt to resolve concerns directly with the handling editor or editorial board. Contact details are available on the journal’s website.
• Submitting the Appeal or Complaint:
  • All appeals and complaints must be submitted in writing via email to the Editorial Office.
  • Submissions must be specific, include supporting evidence (e.g., communications, review reports), and be made within four weeks of the decision or incident.
  • Late submissions may be considered with valid justification.

Procedures for Handling Appeals

• Review of the Appeal: Appeals are reviewed by an independent appeals panel to assess the fairness of the editorial decision.
• Appeals Panel Composition:
  • Comprised of senior Editorial Board members uninvolved in the original decision.
  • Reviews all documentation, including submissions, review reports, and communications.
  • May consult external experts if necessary.
• Decision:
  • The panel will decide within four weeks of receiving the appeal.
  • Possible outcomes include upholding the decision, requesting revisions, or overturning the decision.
  • The appellant will receive a written explanation of the outcome.

Procedures for Handling Complaints

• Receipt of Complaint: Complaints must be specific, evidence-based, and submitted to the Editorial Office.
• Investigation: Complaints are investigated independently, possibly involving an external reviewer or committee. The investigation considers:
  • Scientific or ethical integrity concerns.
  • Possible policy breaches or procedural lapses.
• Decision: Findings are communicated to the complainant within four weeks. Corrective actions may include:
  • Article retraction or correction.
  • Editorial process revisions to prevent recurrence.

General Principles

• Fairness and Independence: All cases are handled by individuals independent of the original decision.
• Confidentiality: Information is shared only with relevant parties or necessary external experts.
• Binding Outcomes: All decisions are final and enforceable by the Editorial Board.
• Record Keeping: All appeals and complaints are documented for transparency and ongoing quality improvement.

Additional Dispute Resolution Options

If an issue cannot be resolved internally, authors may seek advice from:

• Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE): For ethics-related issues.
• Legal Authorities: For disputes involving copyright or legal concerns.

Periodic Review of the Policy

The Appeal and Complaints Policy is reviewed regularly to ensure relevance and effectiveness in maintaining publication integrity.

Most recent version: 25th October, 2024