Complaints & Appeals Policy

Last Updated: 07/09/2025

The Journal of Sustainable Innovation and Impact (JSII) is committed to handling complaints and appeals with fairness, transparency, and in accordance with COPE guidelines. Authors, reviewers, or readers may raise concerns about editorial decisions, peer review, communication, or ethical issues.

1. Scope

This policy covers:

  • Appeals against editorial decisions.
  • Concerns about peer review fairness or quality.
  • Complaints regarding editorial delay or communication.
  • Complaints regarding publication ethics or misconduct.
  • Editorial independence or conflict of interest concerns.

2. Submitting a Complaint or Appeal

  • Complaints must be submitted in writing to the Editorial Office.
  • The complaint should clearly state the issue, relevant evidence, and desired outcome.
  • Complaints should normally be submitted within 30 days of the issue arising, unless exceptional circumstances apply.
  • Anonymous complaints will be considered if sufficient evidence is provided.

3. Appeals Against Editorial Decisions

  • Authors may appeal a rejection or decision by providing a detailed justification with supporting evidence.
  • An appeal will be reviewed by an editor not involved in the original decision or, if necessary, an external advisor.
  • Decisions on appeals are final unless new, substantive evidence emerges.

4. Handling of Complaints

  • Complaints are acknowledged within 10 working days.
  • The investigation will be impartial, and outcomes communicated in writing.
  • Where necessary, cases may be referred to the Editorial Board or external experts.
  • JSII follows COPE Core Practices in investigating all complaints and appeals.

5. Outcomes

  • If a complaint is upheld, corrective action will be taken (e.g., editorial correction, apology, policy change).
  • In cases of misconduct, actions may include correction, retraction, or notifying relevant institutions.

6. Transparency & Independence

Complaints are handled independently of commercial or institutional interests. Editorial independence is strictly maintained.

Contact: For complaints or appeals, contact the Editorial Office — editorial@thesustainimpact.com.