Appeals and complaints

1. Policy and process

The procedure below applies to appeals against editorial decisions, complaints about process failures such as long delays in handling papers, and complaints about publishing ethics. The complaint must first be dealt with by the editor in charge of the journal or the editor who handled the research. If they are the subject of the complaint, please contact the publication contact ([email protected]).

2. A complaint about scholarly content, such as a grievance against a rejection

The editor-in-chief or handling editor considers the authors' argument, informs the reviewer and decides whether:

1. The refusal decision must stand;

2. Another independent opinion is required

3. The appeal must be considered.

The complainant will be informed of the decision, with an explanation if appropriate. Decisions on appeals are final.

3. A complaint about processes, eg time taken to review

The editor-in-chief will investigate. Feedback is provided to relevant stakeholders to improve processes and procedures.

4. A complaint about publishing ethics, such as the behavior of a research author or the behavior of a reviewer

The editor-in-chief or handling editor follows the guidelines published by the Publication Ethics Committee. The editor-in-chief or handling editor may ask the publisher via their internal contact for advice on complex cases. The Editor-in-Chief or Processing Editor decides on a course of action and provides feedback to the complainant. If a complainant remains dissatisfied with the handling of their complaint, they can submit the complaint to the Publication Ethics Committee.