Appeals and Complaints Policy

In scholarly publishing, the fair, constructive, and transparent handling of appeals and complaints is essential for maintaining the credibility and integrity of the editorial process. The International Journal of Contemporary Educational Research (IJCER) upholds these principles in all editorial practices and handles every appeal or complaint in accordance with the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) guidelines, ensuring that all matters are treated confidentially, impartially, and with respect.
Scope
Authors may submit an appeal if they believe that an editorial decision was made based on a factual or procedural error during the review process. Appeals must be based on specific and verifiable issues, such as omissions or scientific misjudgments, rather than personal disagreement with the editorial decision. Complaints may involve concerns related to editorial conduct, procedural irregularities, ethical issues, or any actions that appear inconsistent with principles of fairness or integrity.
Submission Process
All appeals and complaints must be submitted in writing to the editorial office of IJCER through the official contact address( editor@ijcer.net )provided on the journal’s website. Each submission should include:
• The title and reference number of the manuscript,
• A clear explanation of the issue and supporting arguments,
• Any relevant correspondence or evidence.
Incomplete or anonymous submissions may not be processed.
Review and Response
Upon receiving an appeal or complaint, the editorial office will acknowledge receipt within seven business days. The case will then be reviewed by the editorial board, and external experts may be consulted when appropriate. If necessary, the COPE guidelines will serve as the reference framework during the evaluation. A final decision will typically be communicated to the complainant within 30 days of receipt. If the process requires additional time due to unforeseen circumstances, the editorial office will inform the complainant of the delay and expected timeline.
Confidentiality
All appeals and complaints are handled under strict confidentiality. Information and documents obtained during the process are shared only with individuals directly involved in the review and resolution of the matter.
Commitment to Fair and Transparent Practice
IJCER regards the careful and respectful handling of appeals and complaints as an integral component of ethical publishing. Through this policy, the journal aims to ensure that all editorial processes are conducted with fairness, accountability, and transparency, reinforcing the trust of authors, reviewers, and readers alike.

Update: 23.10.2025