Appeals and Complaints Policy

Journal of Psychology and Political Science (JPPS)

JPPS is committed to fair and transparent editorial processes. Authors who disagree with an editorial decision have the right to appeal. This policy describes the process for appealing decisions and submitting complaints.

  1. Appealing an Editorial Decision

Authors who believe their manuscript was rejected due to a misunderstanding, factual error, or failure to consider important evidence may submit an appeal.

Grounds for Appeal:

  • The reviewer/editor misunderstood a key aspect of the methodology or findings
  • Reviewer comments contain factual errors
  • Evidence of bias or conflict of interest in the review process
  • New evidence has emerged that directly addresses the reviewers' concerns (only applicable in exceptional circumstances)

Appeals will NOT be considered on the following grounds:

  • Simple disagreement with the editorial decision without new arguments or evidence
  • Requests to reconsider based solely on the importance of the work

How to Submit an Appeal:

  • Email the Editor-in-Chief at editorinchief.jpps@gmail.com within 30 days of receiving the decision
  • Subject line: APPEAL — [Manuscript ID]
  • Include a point-by-point response to each reviewer comment
  • Clearly explain the grounds for the appeal

The Editor-in-Chief will acknowledge receipt of the appeal within 5 working days. The decision on the appeal is final and will be communicated within 30 working days.

  1. Complaints About Editorial Conduct

Authors, reviewers, or readers who have a complaint about editorial misconduct, bias, or unethical practice should contact the Editor-in-Chief at editorinchief.jpps@gmail.com. If the complaint concerns the Editor-in-Chief, it should be directed to HM Publishers at hmpublishers2@gmail.com.

All complaints will be investigated according to COPE guidelines. The identity of the complainant will be kept confidential where possible.

  1. Manuscript Withdrawal

Authors may request withdrawal of their manuscript at any stage before acceptance by contacting the Editor-in-Chief. After acceptance, withdrawal is only permitted in exceptional circumstances and must be justified. JPPS follows COPE guidelines on manuscript withdrawal.