Publication Ethics
This journal is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of ethical publishing and scholarly integrity. The ethical principles outlined below are developed in accordance with the recommendations and best practices of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), including the COPE Guidelines for Journal Editors and Publishers. The following policy summarizes the primary responsibilities of editors, reviewers, authors, and publishers involved in the publication process.
Responsibilities of Editors
Editorial Fairness and Independence: Editors assess submitted manuscripts solely on the basis of academic quality, originality, relevance, clarity, and contribution to the journal’s scope. Editorial decisions are made without discrimination regarding race, gender, nationality, religious beliefs, political perspectives, institutional affiliation, or personal background of the authors. The editorial process remains independent from external influence, including governmental or organizational pressure. The Editor-in-Chief retains complete authority over editorial decisions and publication scheduling.
Confidentiality: Editors and editorial staff must preserve the confidentiality of all submitted manuscripts. Information regarding a submission may only be shared with individuals directly involved in the review and publication process, including corresponding authors, reviewers, editorial advisors, and the publisher where necessary.
Conflicts of Interest and Disclosure: Editors and editorial board members must not use unpublished information obtained through manuscript handling for personal research or professional benefit without written authorization from the authors. If an editor has any personal, academic, financial, or professional conflict related to a manuscript, the editor must withdraw from the review process and assign the manuscript to another qualified editor.
Publication Decisions: Every manuscript submitted to the journal is subjected to peer review by at least two experts in the relevant field. The Editor-in-Chief is responsible for the final publication decision, considering reviewer evaluations, scholarly merit, originality, relevance, and compliance with ethical and legal standards, including plagiarism and copyright regulations.
Addressing Ethical Concerns: Editors, together with the publisher, will investigate allegations of research misconduct or unethical publishing practices. Appropriate actions may include issuing corrections, expressions of concern, or retractions when necessary. Allegations will be examined even if discovered after publication.
Responsibilities of Reviewers
Support for Editorial Decisions: Peer reviewers assist editors in evaluating manuscripts and provide constructive feedback that helps authors improve the quality of their work. Peer review is a central component of scholarly communication and academic integrity.
Timeliness: Reviewers who are unable to complete a review within the required timeframe or who lack sufficient expertise on the topic should promptly notify the editorial office so that alternative reviewers may be assigned.
Confidentiality of Manuscripts: Manuscripts received for review must be treated as confidential documents. Reviewers may not share, distribute, or discuss manuscript content with others unless authorized by the Editor-in-Chief.
Objective Evaluation: Reviews should be conducted impartially and professionally. Reviewers should provide clear, evidence-based comments and avoid personal criticism of authors.
Citation of Relevant Sources: Reviewers should identify important published studies that have not been referenced by the authors. Any suspected plagiarism, duplication, or substantial similarity with other works should be reported to the editors.
Reviewer Conflicts of Interest: Reviewers must disclose any conflicts of interest arising from personal relationships, collaborations, competition, or institutional affiliations related to the manuscript. In such situations, reviewers should decline the review invitation. Unpublished material obtained during peer review must remain confidential and may not be used for personal advantage or research purposes without written permission from the authors.
