In the realm of scholarly publishing, ensuring transparency and accountability is paramount to maintaining the integrity of academic discourse and safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders involved. Genesis Publishing Consortium Limited (GPCL) recognizes the importance of providing avenues for authors, reviewers, and other stakeholders to address concerns, file complaints, and appeal editorial decisions.
Authors, reviewers, or any individuals with concerns regarding their experience with GPCL journals or interactions with the organization can address them by emailing publication.ethics@genesispcl.com. However, it’s essential to note that GPCL staff refrain from intervening in editorial decision-making processes. Upon receipt of an email to publication.ethics@genesispcl.com, the Research Integrity team at GPCL undertakes an investigation following the guidelines established by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). This investigation includes a thorough review of submission history, and correspondence, and may involve contacting relevant parties for additional information. All processes adhere to general data protection regulation (GDPR) regulations to ensure the privacy and security of the data involved. The outcome of the investigation is communicated in writing, with efforts made to resolve issues expeditiously, typically within three weeks. It is emphasized that individuals raising concerns or complaints allow the investigative process to conclude before making any public comments. If dissatisfied with the resolution, further escalation can be pursued by directly contacting COPE, demonstrating GPCL’s commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing concerns.
Concerns or complaints related to the published content are treated with the utmost seriousness by GPCL, regardless of the identity or status of the complainant. An internal review process is initiated in many instances to determine the necessity of a full investigation. Such investigations are conducted confidentially and following COPE guidelines. Collaboration with authors and Journal Editors is integral to the investigative process. Third-party involvement, such as independent experts or author institutions, is handled in compliance with GDPR to protect the privacy and confidentiality of all parties involved. While efforts are made to preserve the anonymity of complainants, certain complaints may inadvertently reveal the identity of the individual raising concerns. Post-investigation, all complainants are updated on the outcome, although regular updates may be limited to ensure confidentiality is maintained.
Editors wield significant discretion in determining the suitability of submissions for publication in GPCL journals. While many submissions are declined without external review, with a general statement provided for the rejection decision, such decisions are typically considered final and are not subject to formal appeal. However, authors who believe that the rejection decision was not in line with journal policy and procedures have the option to appeal by providing a detailed point-by-point response to reviewer and editor comments. The appeal is reviewed by the Editor, who assesses the peer review process undertaken for the submission. If the decision is deemed to align with editorial criteria, the rejection stands. It is crucial to note that GPCL staff do not intervene in disputes between authors and editors to uphold Editorial Independence. In cases where the conduct of the Editor-in-Chief is the subject of the complaint, authors are directed to contact the GPCL Research Integrity Group through email or web form integrated below.
Instances where concerns are raised regarding published articles prompt consultation with the Editor, following COPE guidelines, to decide on appropriate corrective actions, including retractions or other remedial measures. Authors have the option to appeal such decisions if new evidence impacting the underlying decision comes to light before the specified deadline. Appeals are reviewed by GPCL, possibly involving the journal Editor, Editorial Board, or external advisors, with decisions on retraction appeals considered final. This process ensures that corrective actions taken post-publication are subject to rigorous review and scrutiny, upholding the integrity and credibility of GPCL’s published content.
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Genesis Publishing Consortium Limited (GPCL) is an Open Access publisher, with more than 4 online, peer-reviewed journals covering a wide range of academic disciplines.
