Cmplaints and Appeals
The Caucasus Journal of Social Sciences (CJSS) is committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and accountable editorial process. The journal provides a formal mechanism for handling complaints and appeals related to editorial decisions, peer review, and publication ethics.
Scope of Complaints and Appeals
CJSS considers complaints and appeals related to:
- Editorial decisions (including rejection decisions);
- The peer review process;
- Allegations of ethical misconduct (e.g., plagiarism, authorship issues);
- Conflicts of interest;
- Procedural concerns regarding editorial handling.
Submission of Complaints and Appeals
Complaints and appeals must be submitted in writing to the editorial office via the journal’s official contact email. Submissions should clearly state:
- The nature of the complaint or appeal;
- The manuscript title and identification number (if applicable);
- A detailed explanation of the concern;
- Any supporting documentation.
Editorial Handling Procedure
All complaints and appeals are handled in a structured and impartial manner:
- The Editor-in-Chief oversees the process and ensures an objective evaluation;
- Where appropriate, independent editorial board members or external experts may be consulted;
- Editors who were involved in the original decision may be excluded from the review of the appeal to avoid conflicts of interest;
- All cases are assessed based on the journal’s editorial policies and ethical standards.
Appeals Against Editorial Decisions
Authors may appeal editorial decisions if they believe the decision was based on a misunderstanding, procedural error, or bias. Appeals must provide a clear, evidence-based justification. The journal does not consider multiple or repetitive appeals for the same decision.
The outcome of an appeal may include:
- Confirmation of the original decision;
- Reconsideration of the manuscript;
- Referral for additional independent peer review.
Ethical Complaints
Complaints involving publication ethics are handled in accordance with internationally recognized ethical standards. CJSS may request additional information, involve relevant institutions, or take appropriate editorial action where necessary.
Decision and Communication
CJSS aims to acknowledge receipt of complaints within a reasonable timeframe and to provide a decision following careful review. All decisions are communicated in writing and are considered final.
Confidentiality and Fairness
All complaints and appeals are treated confidentially. CJSS ensures that all parties are treated fairly, without discrimination or bias, and that decisions are based on objective assessment of the available evidence.
