Complaints and Appeals

1. Introduction

IJASCE is committed to maintaining transparency, accountability, and fairness in all aspects of its editorial and publishing processes. This policy outlines the procedures for handling complaints and appeals regarding editorial decisions, journal operations, or ethical concerns. It is based on the COPE Core Practices and flowcharts for complaint resolution.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • Authors who wish to appeal editorial decisions

  • Reviewers, readers, or other stakeholders who have concerns about journal practices

  • Complaints about editorial misconduct, delays, discrimination, or ethical issues

  • Allegations involving IJASCE staff, editorial board members, or publishers

3. Policy Statement and Guidelines

IJASCE welcomes well-substantiated complaints and ensures that all concerns are handled respectfully, confidentially, and without prejudice.

3.1 Editorial Decision Appeals

Authors may appeal editorial decisions (e.g., rejection of a manuscript) if they believe a decision was unfair or not in line with the journal's policies. Appeals must be:

  • Submitted in writing to the Editor-in-Chief

  • Clearly justified with a detailed explanation and, where appropriate, supporting evidence

The appeal will be reviewed by an independent editorial board member or advisory panel not involved in the original decision. A final decision will be made and communicated in writing.

3.2 Operational or Ethical Complaints

Stakeholders may raise concerns about:

  • Delays in peer review or publication

  • Inappropriate reviewer behavior or conflicts of interest

  • Editorial bias or misconduct

  • Suspected ethical violations, including plagiarism or duplicate publication

Such complaints should be directed to the Editor-in-Chief or managing editor. If the complaint involves the Editor-in-Chief, it may be escalated to the journal’s publisher or sponsoring institution.

3.3 Whistleblower Protection

IJASCE will protect the confidentiality and identity of complainants and whistleblowers to the extent possible. Anonymous complaints will be considered if they contain sufficient detail and evidence.

3.4 Resolution Timeline

All complaints and appeals will be acknowledged within five business days. Investigations will be conducted promptly, with a resolution typically provided within 30 days. Complex cases may take longer, in which case interim updates will be communicated.

4. Responsibilities

Authors must submit appeals clearly and respectfully.
Editors are responsible for reviewing complaints fairly and without bias.
Reviewers are expected to maintain professionalism and are subject to scrutiny in the event of a complaint.
The journal’s publisher or managing institution will review unresolved or escalated concerns.

5. Process for Handling Breaches

If a complaint reveals a breach of ethics or policy (e.g., bias, misconduct), IJASCE will take appropriate action, which may include:

  • Editorial review and correction

  • Retraction or correction of articles

  • Removal of reviewers or editors from duties

  • Referral to institutional authorities

6. Related Policies and References

  • COPE Core Practices on Complaints and Appeals

  • COPE Flowcharts for Appeals and Complaints

  • IJASCE’s Authorship Policy

  • IJASCE’s Ethical Oversight Policy

7. Review and Updates

This policy was last reviewed in August 2025 and will be reviewed annually or in response to procedural updates or emerging ethical concerns.