Editorial Responsibilities

Fair Assessment & Journal Scope

Assess a manuscript for its relevance, originality, reasoning, evidence, clarity and ethical suitability. Apply the journal’s scope and standards consistently, without allowing an author’s identity, affiliation or status to substitute for an assessment of the work.

Confidentiality & Reviewer Selection

Limit access to unpublished material and correspondence to those involved in legitimate editorial handling. Keep author and reviewer identities separate for double-blind review and share the information needed for assessment rather than unnecessary personal details.

Seek reviewers with appropriate expertise, sufficient availability and independence. Distinguish an initial screening outcome from the separate judgments obtained through peer review.

Conflicts & Editorial Independence

Declare relationships or interests that could affect impartial handling. Where an editor has a relevant conflict, seek a suitable independent handling arrangement. Processing charges, business interests and pressure from contributors must not determine acceptance or the interpretation of a review.

Research Integrity & Publication Decisions

Consider review reports critically rather than treating a recommendation as a substitute for editorial judgment. Explain the decision and required revisions clearly, check material corrections and identify issues needing further assessment.

Take substantiated concerns about originality, evidence, authorship or ethical compliance seriously. Request explanations and supporting material where necessary, and avoid presenting an unresolved allegation as an established finding.

Complaints, Corrections & Post-Publication Concerns

Provide a fair route for a specific complaint or concern to be considered. Keep a record of the issue, the information examined and the resulting editorial action. Seek independent input where the handling editor’s own conduct is in question.

After publication, assess whether an error affects part of the work or its overall reliability, and consider an appropriate correction, retraction or other notice. Coordinate with the publisher so that changes are explained and the publication history remains understandable.