Ethical Oversight
The Caucasus Journal of Social Sciences (CJSS) is committed to ensuring that all research published in the journal adheres to recognized ethical standards. Authors are responsible for conducting research in accordance with applicable ethical guidelines and for obtaining all necessary approvals prior to submission.
Ethical Approval
Research involving human participants, personal data, or sensitive materials must have received appropriate ethical approval from a recognized institutional review board (IRB), ethics committee, or equivalent body. Authors must provide the name of the approving body and reference number where applicable.
If ethical approval was not required, authors must provide a clear justification in the manuscript.
Informed Consent
Authors must confirm that informed consent was obtained from all participants involved in the study, where applicable. For research involving minors or vulnerable populations, consent must be obtained from a parent, guardian, or authorized representative.
Confidentiality and Data Protection
Authors must ensure that participant confidentiality and privacy are protected. Personal data must be anonymized or de-identified unless explicit consent for disclosure has been obtained. Research must comply with applicable data protection regulations.
Research Involving Animals
Where applicable, research involving animals must comply with relevant institutional, national, and international guidelines for the ethical treatment of animals. Authors must confirm that appropriate approvals were obtained.
Use of Sensitive Data and Materials
Research involving culturally sensitive materials, vulnerable communities, or politically sensitive contexts must be conducted with due respect and responsibility. Authors should demonstrate that appropriate ethical considerations have been applied.
Declaration in Manuscripts
All manuscripts must include a clear Ethics Statement indicating:
- Whether ethical approval was obtained (including the approving body);
- Whether informed consent was obtained (where applicable);
- Any relevant ethical considerations or restrictions.
Editorial Assessment
The editorial team may request additional documentation or clarification regarding ethical approval, consent procedures, or data protection. Manuscripts that do not meet ethical standards may be rejected.
Post-Publication Responsibilities
If ethical concerns arise after publication, CJSS will investigate the matter in accordance with its publication ethics policies and may take appropriate action, including issuing corrections, expressions of concern, or retractions.
