Conflict of Interest

Conflict of Interest Policy

This policy is designed to ensure integrity and impartiality in the editorial and peer-review process by minimizing potential conflicts of interest.

1. Definition and Scope

A conflict of interest (COI) arises when personal, professional, or financial relationships could reasonably be perceived to influence— or appear to influence—objective judgment in the editorial or peer-review process.

2. General Principles

• All participants in the publication process must disclose any potential COIs as early as possible.
• Undisclosed COIs may lead to reassignment of manuscripts or other editorial actions.

3. Conflicts of Interest with Reviewers

Reviewers are responsible for avoiding conflicts of interest with authors, including (but not limited to) the following relationships:

• Current colleagues at the same department or unit.
• Former colleagues within a recent period.
• Co-authors on recent or ongoing publications or projects.
• Supervisory relationships (e.g., Ph.D. students, former supervisees/supervisors).

Reviewers must inform the Editorial Board of any potential conflicts of interest not covered by the categories listed above. If a COI is identified, the reviewer should decline the invitation or request reassignment.

4. Conflicts of Interest with the Editorial Board

The Editorial Board plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the review process. To avoid conflicts of interest, upon assignment of a manuscript, Editorial Board members are required to:

• Disclose any personal, professional, or financial relationships with the authors.
• Recuse themselves from handling the manuscript if a COI exists or could be reasonably perceived.
• Request reassignment of the manuscript to another qualified editor when necessary.

5. Disclosure and Management

• Disclosures should be made to the Editor-in-Chief (or designate) at the time of invitation or assignment.
• The journal will evaluate disclosures and, when needed, reassign editors or reviewers to ensure impartiality.

6. Non-Compliance

Failure to disclose a relevant COI may result in editorial actions, including withdrawal of the reviewer/editor from the process and, in serious cases, further measures consistent with journal policies.

7. Updates

This policy may be updated periodically to reflect best practices in scholarly publishing.

Last updated: 01-12-2024