Peer Review Ethics

Peer Review Ethics

VCHPK Health and Public Health Sciences Journal

To ensure a transparent, fair, and high-quality peer review process, reviewers entrusted with manuscript evaluation are expected to uphold the following ethical principles:

  1. Objectivity and Fairness

Reviewers must evaluate manuscripts objectively and fairly, without personal bias or discrimination based on the authors’ race, gender, religion, nationality, or institutional affiliation.

Evaluations should be based solely on the scientific merit, originality, clarity, and relevance of the content.

  1. Confidentiality

All information regarding submitted manuscripts must be kept confidential and not disclosed to any third party.

Reviewers must not use unpublished information or ideas obtained through peer review for personal advantage.

  1. Constructive Feedback

Comments and suggestions should be clear, constructive, and aimed at helping the authors improve the quality of their work.

Reviewers should avoid harsh or inappropriate language and maintain a professional tone at all times.

  1. Conflict of Interest Disclosure

Reviewers must disclose any potential conflicts of interest—such as personal, financial, or academic relationships with the authors—and recuse themselves from the review process if necessary.

If a reviewer feels unqualified or unable to provide an unbiased review, they should inform the editorial board promptly.

  1. Responsibility and Timeliness

Reviewers should complete reviews within the specified time frame. If a delay is unavoidable, they must notify the editorial team as soon as possible.

Delays without notice may negatively affect the publication process and the authors.

  1. Academic Integrity and Plagiarism

Reviewers should alert the editorial board if they suspect any ethical misconduct, including plagiarism, duplicate submission, data fabrication, or falsification.

They are encouraged to verify the accuracy of citations and ensure the content aligns with ethical research standards.

Note: Reviewers play a critical role in maintaining the academic integrity and quality of the journal. Adherence to these ethical principles ensures trust in the peer review process and contributes to the advancement of science and public health.